September is National Food Safety Month

Food Poisoning (also known as Foodborne illness) is any illness that results from eating contaminated food. The good news – it is preventable.

Let’s look at some current facts and discuss some common food safety myths.

Facts:

• It is estimated that 1 in 6 people each year will experience food poisoning.
• About 15% of foodborne outbreaks occur at home.  
• Following four simple steps Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill – can help protect your family from food poisoning.

Food Safety Myths – True or False

Myth 1: Washing raw poultry, meat, and seafood is safe to do at home.

False: Washing raw poultry, meat, and seafood could cause bacteria to spray and may contaminate other foods and kitchen items.  

Solution: Cook your meat, poultry, and/or seafood to the proper temperature – do not wash it.

Myth 2: Putting hot foods in the refrigerator will make the whole refrigerator get too warm.

False: Your refrigerator can take the heat! You want to cool hot foods to a temperature of 40°F or below quickly.

Solution: Divide hot foods into shallow containers that are less than 4 inches tall for quick cooling in the refrigerator.

Myth 3:  Fruits and vegetables with a skin don’t need to be washed before peeling.

False:  Bacteria on the peel or rind can easily transfer to the inside of your fruits and veggies when you cut them.

Solution:  Wash all fruits and vegetables even if you will peel them.

See more Myths

Check your Steps Campaign