Food Safety

Food safety is all about keeping food clean and safe to eat. If food is not handled properly, tiny germs called bacteria can grow on it and make people sick. Learning the rules of food safety helps you and your family stay healthy. Simple steps like washing your hands and cooking food to the right temperature make a big difference.

Basic Food Safety Rules

The most important rule is to wash your hands with soap and water before touching food. Raw meat should be kept away from other foods to prevent germs from spreading. Fruits and vegetables should be washed before eating them. Leftovers should be put in the refrigerator within two hours so bacteria do not have time to grow.

Cooking Temperatures

Cooking food to the right temperature kills harmful bacteria. Chicken needs to reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit inside. Ground beef should reach 160 degrees. A kitchen thermometer helps you check if food is cooked enough. Food that is left out at room temperature for too long can become unsafe because bacteria grow fast in warm conditions.

Fun Facts

• Bacteria can double in number every 20 minutes when food is left at room temperature.
• The "danger zone" for food is between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
• About 48 million Americans get sick from foodborne illness each year.

Did You Know?

Washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water is one of the best ways to prevent food poisoning!