State Food Safety Practice Exam

How often should food temperature monitoring devices be calibrated?

1. At the beginning of each shift

2. Weekly

3. Monthly

4. Daily

The correct answer is: At the beginning of each shift

Calibration of food temperature monitoring devices is essential for ensuring accurate readings, which directly affects food safety. These devices can drift over time due to wear and tear or environmental conditions, so regular calibration is necessary to maintain their accuracy. Calibrating these devices at the beginning of each shift ensures that they provide accurate temperature readings throughout the day when food is being prepared, stored, or served. This practice is particularly important in food service environments where temperature control is critical for preventing foodborne illnesses. By checking the calibration at the start of each shift, personnel can promptly address any discrepancies, which helps in maintaining compliance with safety regulations and protecting public health. While other frequencies for calibration, such as weekly, monthly, or daily, may seem sufficient, beginning each shift with a calibration check is the most proactive approach to managing food safety and ensuring that food is held at safe temperatures.