When checking a food's temperature, a food handler should monitor the temperature until the reading ____.

When checking a food's temperature, a food handler should monitor the temperature until the reading stabilizes. This means that the thermometer has provided a consistent reading for a few seconds, indicating that the temperature has been accurately measured. It's essential to ensure that the food has reached the necessary internal temperature for safety and quality, particularly when cooking or reheating food.

Monitoring until stabilization helps confirm that the food is safe to eat, preventing the risk of foodborne illnesses caused by undercooking. Proper temperature monitoring is a critical practice in food safety and requires the food handler to be vigilant in checking the thermometer reading until it is steady. This practice can be applied in both commercial and home kitchens to ensure food is prepared and served safely.