Question

What are 3 ways you can prevent bacteria from entering your food?

Answer 1

To prevent bacteria from entering your food, practice regular handwashing, use proper food storage and rotation, and ensure thorough cooking to appropriate temperatures with a cooking thermometer.

Step-by-step explanation:

Preventing Bacteria from Entering Your Food

There are several ways to prevent bacteria from contaminating your food, ensuring it remains safe to eat. The following measures are important for maintaining food safety at home:

1. Regular Handwashing: Always wash your hands before and after handling or preparing food, as well as before eating, to prevent the transfer of bacteria to your food.
2. Proper Food Storage and Rotation: Use older items first and check expiration dates, especially for perishable items like meat and dairy, to prevent the use of spoiled foods that could harbor bacteria.
3. Thorough Cooking and Temperature Control: Ensure that foods reach an internal temperature of at least 74 degrees C (165 degrees F) by using a cooking thermometer. Cooking to these temperatures can kill harmful bacteria that may be present in the food.

Additionally, it's important to rinse fresh produce before eating and avoid cross-contamination by cleaning surfaces and utensils that have been in contact with raw foods, such as meat and eggs, before using them for other food items.

Following these food safety practices can help prevent the transmission of foodborne diseases.