How Safe is Your Barbecue? 1 Cross-Contamination
Datetime:2012-11-06 Hits:
How Safe is Your Barbecue? 1 Cross-Contamination
Food Safety Sin Number 1: Cross-Contamination
The transfer of bacteria from one place (typically meat) to another (such as hands or eating utensils) is a common culprit of foodborne illness, but these simple precautions will help you minimize your risk:
•Stay clean. Your mother probably said it a hundred times, but you should always wash your hands with antibacterial soap before you put a finger on your food.
•Scour all cooking surfaces such as the counter and cutting boards, plus utensils, and produce before whipping up any culinary masterpiece. If you’re packing a picnic, make it a habit to clean out your cooler each and every time.
•Segregate your food groups. Raw meat should never be placed on the same prep area as raw vegetables. Stay safe by assembling salads and any other raw dishes only after the meat is on the grill, and then stick with separate utensils and dishware than those used for prepping raw meat.
•Pack smart. If you’re taking your barbecue on the road, package foods in waterproof zip-top plastic bags; other packaging could get soggy and run the risk of contaminating or getting contaminated by other foods en route.
