In a pressure cooker, the pressure is typically measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or kilopascals (kPa), rather than in atmospheres. The standard atmospheric pressure at sea level is approximately 1 atmosphere, which is equivalent to about 14.7 psi or 101.3 kPa.
Pressure cookers are designed to operate at higher pressures than the standard atmospheric pressure, which allows them to cook food faster. Most modern pressure cookers used in households operate at pressures ranging from 10 to 15 psi (approximately 70 to 100 kPa). Some specialty pressure cookers may be capable of reaching slightly higher pressures, up to around 15 psi or more.
So, food is usually cooked in a pressure cooker at pressures higher than one atmosphere. Common pressure levels in pressure cookers are around 1 atmosphere to 1.5 atmospheres, depending on the specific model and the cooking program selected.
It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for using your pressure cooker safely and effectively, as cooking times and pressure levels can vary depending on the recipe and the type of food being prepared.