Beschreibung:
<jats:title>ABSTRACT</jats:title><jats:p> <jats:italic>A thermometer is an important tool to ensure an adequate hamburger cooking temperature, however, cross‐contamination resulting from previously used thermometers may be possible. Therefore, thorough cleaning of thermometers is essential. The objective of this study was to compare thermometer cleaning methods for reduction of attached Escherichia coli O157:H7. Cleaning techniques were designed to simulate methods used in homes such as rinsing with water, and/or wiping with paper towels were compared with rinsing with 70% alcohol. Paper towels (three treatments: dry, wetted with water, and wetted with 40% alcohol), commercial disinfectant towel, and three types of rinse solutions (ambient temperature water, warm water, and 70% alcohol) were used to clean contaminated thermometer stems. Single‐step cleaning methods and two‐step cleaning methods (rinsing followed by wiping with a paper towel or wipe) were evaluated. The efficacy in removing </jats:italic>E. coli <jats:italic>O157:H7 by cleaning method was as follows: dry paper towel = wet paper towel < cold water < alcohol towel < disinfectant towel < 70% alcohol < warm water. Combined cleaning methods were more effective at removing attached </jats:italic>E. coli<jats:italic> O157:H7 than were single‐step methods. Washing with warm water or 70% alcohol solution, combined with wiping with a paper towel, resulted in elimination of </jats:italic>E. coli<jats:italic> O157:H7 in most cases. In conclusion, warm or hot water washing followed by wiping with a paper towel is recommended to sanitize thermometers after use.</jats:italic></jats:p>