best way to prevent foodborne illness
1. Wash your hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling food to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.
2. Keep food surfaces clean: Use hot, soapy water to clean cutting boards, countertops, and utensils after each use to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Cook food thoroughly: Make sure to cook food, especially meat, poultry, and seafood, to the recommended internal temperature to kill any harmful bacteria.
4. Store food properly: Keep perishable foods in the refrigerator or freezer and make sure to store them at the correct temperature to prevent the growth of bacteria.
5. Avoid cross-contamination: Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods to prevent the spread of bacteria.
6. Wash fruits and vegetables: Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables under running water to remove dirt and bacteria before consuming.
7. Be cautious with leftovers: Refrigerate leftover foods promptly and make sure to reheat them to the proper temperature before consuming.
8. Educate yourself: Stay informed about safe food handling practices and be aware of food recalls to prevent illness.