Many cases of food poisoning can be avoided by changing a few simple kitchen habits.
Here are the most common mistakes that increase your risk of illness, and how to prevent them.
Handwash
Skipping handwashing before and after cooking is one of the biggest culprits. Bacteria from raw meat or fish can easily transfer to your hands, food, or face.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure to clean between your fingers and under your nails.
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Undercooked food
Cooking food at too low a temperature can lead to infections like Salmonella and E. coli.
Use a food thermometer to ensure proper doneness: poultry should reach 165°F, steaks and roasts 145°F, and ground meat 160°F.
Leftovers left out too long
Leaving leftovers at room temperature for too long allows bacteria to thrive.
Cool and refrigerate food within two hours, and make sure your refrigerator stays at 40°F or below.
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Cross-contamination in the kitchen
Using the same cutting board for both meat and vegetables is a classic mistake.
Keep raw meat separate from other foods, and wash cutting boards and utensils in hot, soapy water after each use.
Rinsing raw chicken
Many people believe rinsing chicken makes it cleaner, but it actually spreads bacteria like Salmonella around the sink and nearby surfaces.
Skip the rinse and cook the chicken thoroughly instead.
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Poor kitchen hygiene
Countertops, dishcloths, and utensils can quickly become breeding grounds for germs. Clean surfaces regularly with hot, soapy water and replace dishcloths often.
Improper food storage
Store raw meat on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods. Keep all items in tightly sealed containers to avoid contamination.
Unwashed fruits and vegetables
Fresh produce can carry dirt and bacteria. Always rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water, even if you plan to peel them.
Ignoring serving temperatures
Keep hot foods hot (above 140°F) and cold foods cold (below 40°F) until serving. This helps stop bacteria from multiplying.
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Ignoring symptoms
Food poisoning often causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
Seek medical help if symptoms are severe or persistent, especially in children, older adults, or pregnant women.
Lack of awareness of risk groups
Certain groups are more vulnerable to complications from foodborne illness.
Older adults, young children, and pregnant women should take extra care with food hygiene.
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This article is based on information from Health.com.