Preparing and Storing Food

Whether you’re a newcomer to the kitchen or an experienced home cook, it’s important to follow these proven guidelines for preparing, cooking, refrigerating, and freezing food safely.

Washing and Keeping Clean

Keeping clean is one of the most important things you can to do prevent foodborne illness. Washing hands and surfaces often and properly helps kills harmful bacteria. More >

Cooking: Using Appliances

While the basics of food safety apply to any type of cooking, special guidelines apply to appliances such as grills, microwaves, and slow cookers. More >

Cooking: Using Thermometers

Using a food thermometer is the only way to be sure food is cooked safely. More >

Refrigerating

Refrigerators are one of the most important defenses against foodborne illness. Refrigerating food properly keeps food out of the Danger Zone and helps protect it from harmful bacteria. More >

Freezing and Thawing

You can freeze almost any food. That doesn’t mean that the food will be good to eat – or safe. More >