Precautions for Handling Raw Meat

Keep everything clean!

1. Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meat, seafood, or poultry.

2. Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils (including knives), and countertops with soap and hot water after using them for raw meat, poultry or seafood. You could also bleach and sanitize!

   1. 1. 1. 1. • Cutting boards and knives should be used for specific purposes only. If only one board is available, prepare vegetables and fruits first. Wash it well between uses and sanitize it after preparing meat.

               • Separate raw meat, poultry, or seafood from ready-to-eat foods in your shopping cart, your refrigerator, and while preparing and handling them at home.

               • In the refrigerator, place raw foods in sealed containers or sealable plastic bags.

               • Never place other foods on an unwashed plate previously used for raw meat, poultry, or seafood.

3. Cool It! Use insulated grocery bags to help keep raw meat, poultry, or seafood cool on the way home. Make the trip from the store to your home and the refrigerator as brief as possible.
   

   1. 1. 1. 1. • Buy fresh raw meat, poultry, or seafood only when it is refrigerated.
                 

               • Freeze raw meat, poultry, or seafood immediately unless you are cooking it right away.
                 

               • Set your freezer to keep everything frozen solid.
                 

4. Cook It Right!

   1. 1. 1. 1. • Cook all meats well. Rare might result in more than indigestion!