About smoking and smokers

[Bristlecone]

7. I smoke and grill a lot. I always use a thermometer.

Most people that smoke are into the gadgets and toys that enhance the “science” of the hobby. One of those gadgets/toys is a thermometer. Like the fisherman who brags of his lures, reels, rods etc. The smokers I know all have high end thermometers and brag about using them.

They use them as much to make sure food is not overdone, as to make sure at proper temperature safety. Smoking meat is expensive. They don’t want to screw it up in either direction.

Relative to poultry, chicken and turkey absorb the smoke and often will take on a pinkish hue as a result.

But nothing wrong with asking the temp of something that is presented. Your eyes probably aren’t lying to you.