To what minimum temperature must hamburgers be cooked?

Hamburgers must be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 155 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella, are effectively killed. This temperature is established based on food safety guidelines that aim to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. Cooking ground beef to this temperature ensures that it is safe to eat, as ground meat has a higher risk of contamination due to the grinding process that can introduce bacteria from the surface to the interior.

While other temperatures listed might be applicable for different types of meat or food items, 155 degrees Fahrenheit is specifically the standard for ground beef, such as hamburgers. Cooking meat to this temperature also helps to retain moisture and maintain a desirable texture, making it both a safe and palatable option for consumers.