Proper cooking methods can ensure that people eat with confidence and peace of mind. Here are four key steps centered around correct cooking practices:

  • Cleaning
  • Separation
  • Cooking
  • Refrigeration

Firstly, cleaning is the most important and initial step in proper cooking.

Regular Handwashing

Use plain soap and water, rubbing hands for at least 20 seconds (you can sing “Happy Birthday” twice as a timing aid). Wash your hands before and after preparing food, after handling raw meat, before eating, after using the toilet, and during other critical times.

Cleaning Utensils and Surfaces

Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and countertops with hot, soapy water, especially after they have held raw meat.

Washing Fruits and Vegetables

Rinse them under running water; do not use soap, bleach, or commercial cleansers. Use a clean produce brush to scrub firm produce and dry it afterward.

No Cleaning

Do not wash meat, poultry, eggs, or seafood to prevent spreading harmful bacteria.

Secondly, separating food items during storage and handling is crucial to prevent cross-contamination.

Use Separate Cutting Boards and Plates

Designate different cutting boards and plates for produce, meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs to avoid cross-contamination.

Store Food Separately

In shopping carts, refrigerators, and other places, keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from other foods.

Furthermore, during cooking, ensure that food reaches safe eating temperatures.

Use a Food Thermometer

Make sure the internal temperature of food is sufficiently high to kill harmful bacteria.

Maintain Food Temperature After Cooking

If food is not consumed immediately after preparation, keep it away from the danger zone (between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C)).

Microwave Food Safely

Follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure thorough cooking.

Lastly, chilling is a vital means of keeping food fresh and safe.

Refrigerate Perishable Foods Promptly

Place food in the refrigerator within two hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Set Correct Refrigerator and Freezer Temperatures

Refrigerators should be set to 40°F (4°C) or below, and freezers should be set to 0°F (-18°C) or below.

Thaw and Marinate Food Safely

Do so in the refrigerator to ensure safety.