Keeping Food Safe

 

Temperatures
Disease-causing bacteria can multiply in potentially hazardous foods (perishable foods) if temperature controls are not used or are inadequate.

Temperature Requirements for Potentially Hazardous Foods (Oregon Department of Agriculture)

Handwashing
Washing your hands the right way can stop the spread of illness-causing bacteria. It takes 20 seconds and requires only three ingredients: running water, soap, and something to dry your hands (a paper towel or air).

Wash Your Hands (CDC)

Separate, don't cross contaminate!
Improper handling of raw meat, poultry, and seafood can create an inviting environment for cross-contamination. As a result, harmful bacteria can spread to food and throughout the kitchen.

Food safety at farmers' markets
Many markets have their own food safety rules, and vendors must comply with them, as well as any applicable government regulations. But, there are also basic guidelines that you should follow to ensure that the farm-fresh food is safe. FDA provides tips on keeping the food you purchase at the market safe.

Safe shopping bags
The fabric or materials in reusable grocery bags can get contaminated with germs like Salmonella or E. coli from food or other items. These germs could then cross-contaminate other food or items we carry in the reusable bag and make us sick. If you use reusable grocery bags, there are some simple steps that you can follow to reduce cross-contamination.

Safety of garden produce
From garden to kitchen, there are many chances for bacteria, viruses, and parasites to contaminate produce. Water, tools, animals, and manure-contaminated soil may spread harmful organisms in your garden.

Home food preservation
Home food preservation is growing in popularity; protect yourself, your family, and others when you share your home-canned goodies by learning how to can safely.

Complete Guide to Home Canning, 2015 revision (USDA)

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