So, why is temperature so crucial when it comes to cooking a ham? Bacteria growth is the main culprit - if your ham isn't cooked to a high enough temperature, bacteria like Trichinella can thrive, making you and your guests very sick indeed. But don't worry, with a food thermometer, you'll be well on your way to cooking a ham that's both safe and scrumptious.
Now, you might be thinking, "But what about all the different types of ham?" Well, the good news is that most types of ham, including smoked ham, cured ham, and glazed ham, all need to be cooked to the same temperature - 140°F (60°C). Whether you're a fan of prosciutto or Black Forest ham, the temperature rule remains the same.
