Safe Food Handling Tips

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after handling raw meat products.
• Refrigerate perishable foods at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
• Thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator. A microwave or cold running water may be used to thaw frozen products FOR IMMEDIATE USE ONLY.
• Place a pan underneath raw meat products on the lowest shelf of your refrigerator away from food that does not need to be cooked.
• Use a clean food thermometer to ensure your food is thoroughly cooked. Food thermometers may be purchased at many retail stores.
• Review the minimum cooking temperature (see below) guide published by the USDA. This guide lists the minimum cooking temperature for various types of foods.
• Cool leftovers promptly in small portions. For example: Slice a roast into thinner portions before placing it into the refrigerator.

Minimum Cooking Temperatures (°F)recommended by the USDA