Food Safety Q+A

How can I prevent food poisoning at home?

Q:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the following four steps for Food Safety.

Clean:

  • Vigorously wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before rinsing thoroughly with warm water. Dry hands well with clean towels or paper towels.

  • Start with cleaned and dried surfaces (counters, cutting boards, utensils, and tables).

  • Wash hands and surfaces before handling new food items (meat, proteins, vegetables).

Separate:

  • Prepare food items on separate surfaces (one cutting board for proteins and another for produce).

  • Foods are wrapped and packaged separately in a grocery store. Wrap and package food separately at home.

Cook:

  • Use a meat thermometer and cook foods for the recommended time. Safe serving temperatures:

    • Whole cuts of beef, veal, lamb, and pork, including fresh ham: 145°F (then allow the meat to rest for 3 minutes before carving or eating)

    • Fish with fins: 145°F or cook until the flesh is opaque and separates easily with a fork

    • Ground meats, such as beef and pork: 160°F

    • All poultry, including ground chicken and turkey: 165°F

    • Leftovers and casseroles: 165°F

Cool:

  • Refrigerator temperature should be set at 40°F and freezers at 0°F or below.

  • Store perishable food within two hours of being left out at room temperature.

  • Leftovers should be disposed of after 3-4 days.

Learn more at: https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/keep-food-safe.html

A:

I left perishable food on the stove or counter last night. Is it safe to heat and eat today?

Q:

No. Perishable or cooked food left out more than 2 hours at room temperature will reach temperatures above 40°F and bacteria will begin to multiply.

When food has not been stored properly or if you doubt its safety, throw it out.

A:

I think I have food poisoning. What should I do?

Q:

Seek medical care in an emergency room if you experience the following symptoms that are not resolving and may be related to food poisoning:

  • Fever

  • Excessive vomiting and dehydration

  • Muscle/body cramps

  • Blood in vomit or bowel movements

If you suspect food poisoning and do not experience the previously mentioned symptoms, call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222 to speak with a Specialist in Poison Information.

Typical symptoms related to food poisoning do not include chest pain, shortness of breath, or confusion. Call 911 immediately for anyone having these symptoms.

A: