To ensure the perfect turkey this Thanksgiving, check to make sure the turkey reaches a temperature of 170 degrees F in the breast and 180 degrees F in the thigh. The true indicator that a turkey is ready to eat is to measure the bird's temperature with a food thermometer. Accurate temperatures, both in the oven and the turkey, are important for quality and safety. Since most consumers spend little time in the kitchen during the year, it is important to check the oven thermostat and oven temperature to verify the oven setting.A recent National Turkey Federation (NTF) survey found that less than 50 percent of home cooks use a thermometer to determine doneness of a turkey and or stuffing. This could mean that many home cooks are over cooking or undercooking their turkey -- leading to a disappointing outcome. NTF wants to make a food thermometer a cook's best friend by providing guidelines to ensure proper use.Time is a measurement in helping to ensure doneness. The turkeys purchased today yield a higher proportion of white meat, which cooks faster than dark meat and shorten the time it takes to prepare the turkey.Temperature Indicator -- Add One