Which tool is commonly used to measure the temperature of food?

The choice of a food thermometer as the correct answer reflects its essential role in ensuring food safety and proper cooking. A food thermometer is specifically designed to measure the internal temperature of food accurately, which is critical for determining whether foods are cooked to a safe temperature that can eliminate harmful bacteria and prevent foodborne illnesses.

Using a food thermometer allows individuals to check that poultry, ground meats, and other foods reach the recommended temperatures for safety. This tool is invaluable in both home kitchens and commercial food service as it helps maintain health standards and ensures that food is not undercooked or overcooked.

In contrast, a kitchen scale is used for measuring weight, a meat cleaver is a cutting tool, and a timer is used to track cooking time. While these tools serve important functions in food preparation, they do not provide the necessary temperature readings that are crucial for food safety. Only a food thermometer can provide this specific measurement, making it the best choice for the question regarding measuring food temperature.