Food Safety
Food safety is an important part of our lives. No matter who you are, where you go, and what you do, you should always be aware of safe food practices. The impact of improper food handling can make you and your family very sick. It can easily be avoided by using 4 simple steps:
1.Clean - Clean both your hands and food surfaces.
2.Separate - Separate raw meats from other foods while shopping and storing.
3.Cook - Insure proper food temperatures during the cooking process.
4.Chill - Refrigerate food promptly to prevent foodborne illness.
More information on the 4 step process: Food Safety: Four Steps to Check
Cook to a Safe Minimum Internal Temperature* - Information from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on safe minimum internal temperature for cooking that is hot enough to kill harmful germs that cause food poisoning.
Cold Food Storage Chart* - Information from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services on guidelines for storing food in the refrigerator and freezer.
Federal Food Safety Information* - Information from government agencies on keeping food safe and preventing foodborne illness.
USDA Is It Done Yet?* - Information from the United States Department of Agriculture on proper thermometer placement and cooking temperatures.
FDA Food Recalls and Safety Alerts* - The Food and Drug Administration provides a list of food products that have been recalled.
*By clicking on these links, you will leave the Department of Veterans Affairs Web site.
