Which food item requires the longest cooking time to reach a safe temperature?

Cooking time is determined by the type of meat and the thickness of the cut, as well as the safe internal temperature that must be reached to ensure food safety. In this case, a pork roast typically requires the longest cooking time among the options provided.

Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F, and depending on the size and thickness of the roast, it may take several hours to reach this temperature, particularly when cooking in an oven or slow cooker. This extended cooking time allows for the thorough cooking of the meat, ensuring that harmful bacteria are eliminated.

In contrast, steak and ground beef generally require less time to cook safely. Steak is often cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F, and ground beef must be cooked to at least 160°F. Fish is also typically cooked quite quickly, often reaching a safe temperature of 145°F in a matter of minutes. Thus, the pork roast stands out for its longer cooking duration needed to ensure it is safely prepared.