Prevent food poisoning by cooking properly

Cook at the correct temperature

According to foodsafety.gov, the greatest danger of bacteria food poisoning occurs when food are between the temperature of 40 and 140 degrees F. 

·        Do you use a food thermometer?  Cooking food kills bacteria and the temperature is important.  Undercooking food will leave harmful bacteria alive to cause illness.

·        After you’ve cooked your food, the experts at foodsafety.gov say it’s good to keep food warm  (above 140 deg F) if there’s a delay in eating.  Keep food warm using a warming tray, a slow cooker or chafing dish. 

·        When using a microwave, it’s wise to heat food thoroughly to 165 deg F.  Stir the food to help with heating.  If the package instructions say, “let the microwave dish stand for _ minutes,” allow that to happen because the food continues to cook during that standing time.  Following the directions will make your meal safer.  You can use a food thermometer to check for the 165 degree F.