Making nutritious food choices is essential, but healthy eating isn’t complete without safe food handling practices. Mishandling food can lead to foodborne illnesses, which are often caused by bacteria that thrive in unclean environments. That’s why food safety is just as important as nutrition.
To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, follow the Four Key Steps to Food Safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.
- Clean
- Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
- Clean surfaces and utensils with soap and hot water after each use. Use paper towels or clean cloths (washed frequently) to wipe spills and surfaces.
- Sanitize after handling raw meat by using a solution of 1 tablespoon of liquid bleach in 1 gallon of water. Let it stand on surfaces, then rinse and air-dry or pat dry with clean paper towels.
- Wash fruits and vegetables under running water, even if you plan to peel them. However, do not wash raw meat, poultry, or eggs, as this may spread harmful bacteria.
- Wash dish towels often, preferably in hot water, or use disposable paper towels to keep the kitchen germ-free.
- Separate
Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from other foods at every stage, that is, shopping, storage, and preparation. This prevents cross-contamination, one of the leading causes of foodborne illness.
- Cook
Use a food thermometer to ensure all foods are cooked to safe internal temperatures. Instant-read digital thermometers provide quick and accurate readings to ensure bacteria are killed during cooking.
- Chill
Refrigerate or freeze perishable foods such as meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood within two hours of purchase or preparation. Use a thermometer when reheating leftovers to ensure they reach 165°F to eliminate any surviving bacteria.
Additional Safety Tips
Keep pets off kitchen counters and away from food preparation areas to prevent the spread of germs.
Food safety is a vital part of maintaining overall health. By consistently practicing the steps of cleaning, separating, cooking, and chilling, you protect yourself and your family from foodborne illnesses. Combine smart food choices with safe handling, and you’ll enjoy meals that are both nutritious and safe.
