How to Keep Your Family Safe
Summer is a great time to enjoy the weather and cookouts with family and friends. However, it's important to follow some simple food safety tips to help prevent food-borne illnesses, burns, and other injuries. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
Wash Your Hands
Wash your hands often, especially before and after handling food. Use soap and water, and make sure to scrub for at least twenty seconds. If you're at a place where you do not have access to running water, such as at a park or while camping, bring along hand sanitizer.
Keep Food Covered
Keep cooked food covered to prevent contamination. This also helps prevent insects and animals from getting into your meals, which can cause serious illness.
Keep Hot Food Hot, Cold Food Cold
Cooked foods should be kept either hot (above 140°F) or cold (below 40°F). If you're grilling outside, set up a station with ice to keep raw meat covered and away from other food. Place the cooked food on a clean plate or cutting board to keep it separate from raw meat when you've finished cooking.
Don't Cross-Contaminate
Do not cross-contaminate by placing raw meat on the same plates used for other foods. Why? Uncooked meat can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Be sure to cook meat thoroughly before eating.
Use a Thermometer to Ensure Doneness
Use a food thermometer to make sure your food is cooked thoroughly. Food should be safe to eat when a thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads at least 160°F for most meat and 165°F for chicken breast.
Utilize Separate Utensils
Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and plates when handling raw meat. This will help to prevent cross-contamination.
Have Safe Drinks
Avoid drinking alcohol when cooking as it can increase your risk of food-borne illnesses and burns. Likewise, these beverages can also make it easier to become dehydrated.
Urgent Care Center in California
At Pinnacle HealthCare, we believe in keeping our community safe. Whether you need urgent care or just have a question, we're here to help! Contact us today to learn more.
