The use of cooking oils plays a huge role
in culinary businesses across New Zealand. They are used in a wide array of
deep-fried dishes, from the humble french fry through to more complex creations
such as spring rolls and fritters. But when using cooking oils, operators have
to be aware of the risks associated with heating and deep-frying foods in oil.
Cooking oils that usually are safe for human consumption at room temperature
undergo a chemical change that can make them harmful when heated beyond a certain
temperature or when used excessively. That is why it is important to understand
the science behind cooking oil so that you can understand how to correctly
measure the temperature and quality of oil to ensure that it is safe for
cooking.
When is cooking oil safe to cook in?
All oil used for deep frying should be tested to
ensure it has been heated to a safe but not excessive cooking point. This point
varies based on the type of oil that is being used, but a general rule of thumb
is between 160 and 190 degrees Celsius.
The best means of measuring the temperature of cooking oil is a specialised digital thermometer, such as the HACCP International approved Testo 270. These thermometers are specifically designed to take an accurate reading of the oil quickly and precisely. Furthermore, it is a good idea to test any oil that is being reused for deep-frying purposes with a cooking oil tester that can measure the Total Polar Material (TPM).
TPM is used to measure the chemical deterioration of cooking oil. It does this by identifying the percentage of oil compounds that are more polar than the triacylglycerols of the fat. As cooking oil is reused, the TPM percentage of the oil gradually increases. With the Testo 270 oil tester, you’ll be able to measure the TPM score over time. When the number exceeds 24%, it indicates that it is time to discard the oil.
Advantages of the Testo 270 Cooking Oil Tester
- Simple: Clear, visual alarm indication via highly visible alarm backlight in traffic light colours. The tester is also able to carry out back-to-back measurements in hot oil without needing to wait for the cooking oil tester to cool down.
- Accurate: Calibration can be carried out at the measuring location using the reference oil.
- Robust: The fibreglass housing is extremely impact resistant. Moreover, the oil sensor is em-bedded in metal and is therefore break-proof. In compliance with protection class IP65, it is protected against water jets and can be washed under running water.
- Safe: Users are protected from the heat of the cooking oil thanks to the measuring instrument’s ergonomic design.
- Clear: %TPM shown on the large display and Auto-Hold function for the display of readings.
By ensuring that you are using fresh, adequately heated oil for deep-frying you’ll be able to deliver quality, safe food every time.
For more information on tools to maintain safe practises when working with cooking oils, contact the Eurotec team today via phone 09 579 1990 or Email sales@eurotec.co.nz
