Food safety tips for the holidays
Remember to clean utensils and cutting boards before and after contact with raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs.
By Registered Dietitian Carrie Dvorak, MS, RD, LDN.
The holiday season and food preparation go hand-in-hand. From baking the perfect pie to dressing the turkey, it’s the time of year where friends and family come together in the kitchen to prepare delicious food. There are several things you and your family can do to stay safe while readying food items. When cooking, keep these tips in mind to keep your family safe from food poisoning.
- Clean hands, utensils, and cutting boards before and after contact with raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs.
- Keep raw meat and poultry separate from foods that are not being cooked.
- Use a food thermometer when cooking. You cannot tell if food is cooked safely by how it looks only
- Cool leftovers and takeout food within two hours and keep the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
- Rinse fruits and vegetables, even those with skins or rinds that are not eaten, with tap water.
- Thawing meat in the refrigerator is important. Never thaw meat on the counter. If you are in a rush, thaw meat in the microwave or by running it in its package under cold water. Never soak raw meat in the sink to let it thaw.
- When in doubt, throw it out. We naturally hate to waste food but don’t be tempted to hold onto food if you believe it might have become spoiled.
Disclaimer
This articles provide general information for educational purposes only. The information provided in this article, or through linkages to other sites, is not a substitute for medical or professional care, and you should not use the information in place of a visit, call consultation or the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider.