Safe cooking practices are essential to prevent food-borne illness, which affects 48 million Americans each year. By following simple steps—clean, separate, cook and chill—you can protect yourself and your loved ones from harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli.

Why food safety matters

Food-borne illness, often called food poisoning, occurs when contaminated food introduces harmful bacteria, viruses or parasites into the body. Symptoms can range from mild stomach upset to severe, life-threatening conditions. Vulnerable groups—such as young children, older adults, pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems—are at higher risk.

Four core safe cooking practices

• Clean: Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food. Clean cutting boards, utensils and countertops with hot, soapy water. Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water. Clean countertops after use.
• Separate: Prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs away from ready-to-eat foods. Use separate cutting boards for raw proteins and produce.
• Cook: Use a food thermometer to make sure foods reach safe internal temperatures. Also make sure your meat and poultry reach the correct cooking temperature. According to the US Department of Agriculture, poultry should reach 165°F, ground meats 160°F and seafood 145°F. Cooking thoroughly kills harmful bacteria.
• Chill: Refrigerate leftovers promptly—within two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F. Keep your fridge at 40°F or below and your freezer at 0°F.

Extra safety tips

• Thaw safely: Defrost frozen foods in the refrigerator, cold water inside a bowl or the sink or microwave—not on the counter.
• Avoid risky shortcuts: Never partially cook food to finish later, as bacteria can survive.
• Stay informed: Pay attention to food recalls and avoid consuming items flagged for contamination.

Closing thought

Safe cooking practices aren’t complicated—they’re habits that keep meals both delicious and safe. By cleaning, separating, cooking and chilling properly, you reduce the risk of food-borne illness and protect the health of everyone at your table.

Maxim Healthcare provides a range of home health and personal care services. Contact your local office to learn more about Maxim’s services to get the support you need.