How to Safely Handle Raw Meat

Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. To prevent illness, it's important to handle raw meat safely.

Here are some tips:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw meat. This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria.

2. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other foods. This will help to prevent cross-contamination.

3. Cook raw meat to the proper internal temperature. The safe internal temperature for cooked meat varies depending on the type of meat. You can find the safe internal temperatures for different types of meat online or in a cookbook.

4. Refrigerate or freeze raw meat promptly. Raw meat should be refrigerated or frozen within two hours of purchase.

5. Thaw frozen meat in the refrigerator or under cold running water. Do not thaw frozen meat in the microwave.

6. Marinate raw meat in a covered container in the refrigerator. Do not marinate meat at room temperature.

7. Discard any raw meat that has been left out at room temperature for more than two hours.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent foodborne illness from raw meat.