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.
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
