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What type of thermometer should not be used in food due to safety concerns?

  1. Digital thermometer

  2. Thermocouple with a thin probe

  3. Mercury-filled glass thermometer

  4. Bimetal thermometer

The correct answer is: Mercury-filled glass thermometer

The use of a mercury-filled glass thermometer in food safety is strongly discouraged due to significant safety concerns. Mercury is a toxic substance, and if the thermometer breaks, it can leak mercury into the food or onto surfaces, posing serious health risks to anyone who consumes the food or comes into contact with it. Additionally, mercury thermometers can be challenging to clean if they break, leading to further contamination risks. In contrast, digital thermometers, thermocouples with thin probes, and bimetal thermometers are designed to be safe for food use. Digital thermometers provide quick and accurate readings without the risk of toxic material. Thermocouples with thin probes can measure the temperature of thin foods quickly and are safe for direct contact. Bimetal thermometers are commonly used in kitchens and can accurately read temperature without any safety risk associated with mere breakage or leakage.