Here are my top 10 tips on how to store food safely at home.
The first line of defense against spreading germs is hand washing. No matter what you are working with, always clean your hands between different food types and when they are visibly soiled.
Washing your food will also help prevent the spread of germs. Wash fruits, vegetables, and meats before preparing them. This removes any dirt and other substances that may have collected on your food between harvesting and shipping to the grocery store.
If you are using canned ingredients, always wash the top of the can off under running water before opening it.
When dealing with raw meat, keep juices contained on a cutting board or in the sink. Please don’t use any other food in that prep area until it is thoroughly cleaned with soap and hot water.
When cooking your foods, make sure that they stay hot for the required amount of time. For instance, the chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it is considered cooked all the way through.
Do your best to observe the 2-hour rule. Place food in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking it. The longer food sits out, the greater the chance of bacterial growth and spoilage.
When storing your food, use appropriate-sized containers. While leaving a space for air, too much space encourages condensation to collect and a layer of water to form on top of your food that won’t look very appetizing.
When food has sufficiently cooled, move it to the freezer if you want to keep it longer. Label the container with the freezing date as well as the name of the item. Use only approved freezer containers to avoid cracking, leaks, and freezer burn on your food.
Thaw foods by putting them in the refrigerator. It is not a good idea to set them on the counter. Thawing meats, put them in cold water, or use the microwave defrost if you need them sooner. Remember to clean up any liquid before using your microwave again.
Observing food safety and storage at home can save you money and keep your family healthy.