A Checklist

Outbreaks of foodborne illness have increased drastically over the decade of the 1980s. Foodborne disease is often traced to improper handling and storage practices. According to the USDA, an estimated 80 people per 100,000 suffer from foodborne illness each year. This results in an annual cost to the economy of approximately $10 billion in lost wages, hospital and medical costs.

Are handling and storage practices up to par? Use this checklist to find your weaknesses. Improving poor habits can prevent illness in your home. By following some simple measures you can protect your family from foodborne illness.

When storing foods do you....

• check the temperature of your refrigerator to make sure it is between 34-40 degrees? If it is colder you are wasting money, if it is warmer you run the risk of foodborne illness. Use a refrigerator thermometer. You can buy one at the grocery store in the housewares section.

• space hot or warm food items in your refrigerator so air can freely circulate so that food cools quickly?

• freeze fresh meats and poultry immediately if you do not plan to use them within a day?

• place meat and poultry on a tray or plate on the lowest shelf of your refrigerator when thawing? This prevents raw juices from dripping on other food items.

• read and follow the "use by", "keep refrigerated" information on package labels?

• always remove large quantities of cooked food (such as beans, stews and soups) from pots, placing it in smaller containers in the refrigerator so it cools quickly and safely?

Before you cook foods do you...

• wash your hands with hot soapy water for at least 20 seconds?

• cover any cuts or sores on your hands with a bandage? Cuts and sores can be a source of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and can make others sick. A bandage protects you and the food.

• use an apron to cover your clothes?

• keep pets out of the kitchen? Make sure pets are not fed in the kitchen where food is being prepared. We love them, but they can be a source of bacteria that can make us sick.
  

Late Summer 1996
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