- Washing Raw Meat Does Not Protect Against Illness Lots of people think that rinsing or soaking meat and poultry improves safety. However, when you cook whole pieces of meat, pork, or poultry, a cooking temperature above160°F on the surface of the product will destroy any disease causing bacteria. The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline does not recommend washing or rinsing raw beef, pork,…
- Washing Fresh Produce Washing fresh produce before eating is a healthful habit. Supermarkets, as a rule, don’t wash produce before putting it out, but many stores mist it while its on display. Misting keeps the produce from drying. Small amounts of surface residues do drain off, but may not be enough. You can reduce and often eliminate residues…
- Gifts in the Mailbox Giving and receiving food packages in the mail for the holidays can be fun, festive and exciting. When mailing food gifts you must consider how well the product will travel and safety. Will the items remain in good condition during the trip and arrive in one piece? If sending perishable foods, will the items still…