So, why is internal temperature such a big deal? Well, it all comes down to food safety, folks! If your hot dog is not cooked to a high enough temperature, you're basically playing a game of gastrointestinal roulette. And trust me, you don't want to win that game.
According to the experts, a hot dog should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (that's 71°C for all you metric system fans out there). And let me tell you, it's not just about throwing that hot dog on the grill and hoping for the best. No, no, no! You need to use a food thermometer to ensure that you're reaching that magic number.
The Best Temperature to Cook Homemade Pizza | The Kitchn
Now, I know what you're thinking: "But what about all the hot dogs I've eaten at ballparks and backyard barbecues? Were they all death traps waiting to happen?" Well, maybe, just maybe, you've been lucky so far. But don't worry, with a little knowledge and some temperature-taking know-how, you can enjoy your hot dogs with peace of mind.
