FoodSafety.gov

FoodSafety.gov is your one-stop online shop for food safety information from the federal government.

01/29/2021

Deli meats can be tasty but remember, they will only last 3-5 days in the refrigerator after opening. Keep those sandwiches food safe!

These 4 simple steps are essential to preventing foodborne illness in your home:1. Clean — Wash hands and surfaces often...

01/28/2021

4 Food Safety Tips: Clean, Separate, Cook & Chill

These 4 simple steps are essential to preventing foodborne illness in your home:
1. Clean — Wash hands and surfaces often.
2. Separate — Don't cross-contaminate.
3. Cook — Cook to the right temperature.
4. Chill — Refrigerate promptly.
https://youtu.be/vw6r5UJ9cjo

01/27/2021

Do you prepare baby food fresh daily? Know how long you should store your baby’s food to keep them safe from foodborne illness.

01/26/2021

Frozen foods can be convenient but it’s important to know if frozen products are raw or ready-to-eat. Be sure to check the packaging and prepare raw frozen meals by always using a food thermometer to make sure they reach the safe internal temperature.

01/25/2021

Not sure how long you should keep certain foods in your fridge? There’s an app for that! Download our FoodKeeper app to know how to keep your food fresh and safe.
https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep-food-safe/foodkeeper-app

01/24/2021

Do you know the minimum internal cooking temperatures to cook your meat, poultry and seafood to make it safe? We’ve got you covered! https://go.usa.gov/xA7Hs

01/22/2021

Before preparing any meal, remember to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap & warm water before & after cooking!

01/21/2021

Making a big batch of soup? Save some for later by freezing! Soup can be frozen for 2-3 months for best freshness and quality. #NationalSoupMonth

01/19/2021

Do you know how to prevent cross contamination in the fridge? Start by putting raw products in containers to prevent their juices from dripping onto other foods. #FoodSafety

01/18/2021

In recognition of Dr. King’s incredible legacy of service and leadership to gain equality for all Americans, #MLKDay is a chance to honor his life and re-commit ourselves to serving our communities.

Care for someone with diabetes? It may be harder for their immune system to recognize harmful foodborne pathogens, incre...

01/17/2021

People at Risk: Those with Weakened Immune Systems

Care for someone with diabetes? It may be harder for their immune system to recognize harmful foodborne pathogens, increasing their risk for infection. These food safety tips will help you protect them from becoming ill. https://go.usa.gov/xRSDp

Find out why people with health problems or who take medicines that weaken the body’s ability to fight germs and sickness are more likely to get a foodborne illness.

01/16/2021

What happens when foods are left in the Danger Zone (40-140°F) for more than 2-hours? Bacteria can double in number in as little as every 20 minutes! Keep food safe by keeping hot foods hot & cold foods cold. #FoodSafety

01/15/2021

Do you know how to safely use your slow cooker? Four important food safety tips you’ll want to know before plugging in for #NationalSlowCookingMonth! → https://go.usa.gov/xnYSd

01/14/2021

Winter weather headed your way? Take a look at our winter food safety tips! https://go.usa.gov/xAmzQ

01/13/2021

January is National Soup Month! Food safety tip: Don’t leave a large pot of soup on the counter to cool before placing in the fridge. Instead, separate into smaller containers and safely place in the fridge for immediate cooling.

01/12/2021

🐔 Shopping for fresh chicken? Poultry shopping tips you'll want to keep in mind:
- Make sure package is cold & not torn.
- Place in plastic bags.
- Separate in cart from other items.
- Shop for it last.

01/11/2021

Using a food thermometer is essential in preventing foodborne illness. You can't see, smell, or taste harmful bacteria that may cause illness. The only safe way to destroy bacteria that may be present is to cook to a safe internal temp.

01/10/2021

#NationalPizzaWeek begins today! Remember, when pizza is left at room temp for more than 2 hours, it’s the perfect environment for bacteria to grow and multiply rapidly. Always refrigerate your leftovers!

01/08/2021

The slow cooker is a great way to cook meats! Remember to cut large pieces of meat into smaller pieces before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure its cooked thoroughly.

01/07/2021

Why do we recommend NOT washing your meat & poultry? The answer is simple, it doesn’t destroy bacteria, it spreads it.

01/06/2021

Wondering why water is in meat & poultry packages? Here’s some background info that may answer your questions! https://go.usa.gov/xANR8

01/05/2021

Do you know how to protect your child from foodborne illness? Check the steps at http://FoodSafety.gov/children

01/04/2021

It’s #NationalSpaghettiDay! Remember to stay food safe and follow these steps while preparing your meal:
🧼Clean
⬅️➡️Separate
🌡️ Cook
❆Chill

01/03/2021

Meal prepping for a healthy 2021? Remember, cooked foods only last 4 days in the fridge! For safety, freeze your meals at the beginning of the week and take out the day before you need them!

01/02/2021

It’s #NationalMeatMonth! There are many ways to celebrate like trying a new recipe! But remember to keep #FoodSafety in mind by making sure you know the steps to proper meat preparation! https://go.usa.gov/xExUZ

01/01/2021

It’s a New Year! Start your year off right by developing habits that will keep you #FoodSafe!

12/31/2020

Ring in the New Year with Food Safety! 🎉 Remember to follow these 4 steps while enjoying those tasty snacks tonight: Clean, Separate, Cook & Chill! #newyearseve

12/30/2020

FoodKeeper App

Planning your New Year’s meal? The FoodKeeper App can help! https://www.foodsafety.gov/keep-food-safe/foodkeeper-app

The FoodKeeper can help consumers use food while at peak quality and reduce waste and understand food and beverages storage.

12/29/2020

Are those Christmas leftovers still in the fridge? Today is the last day they are safe! You can also freeze them up to six months for best quality.

12/28/2020

Do you know what foodborne illness looks like? It could take days before you develop symptoms of food poisoning after eating a contaminated product so it’s important to know what to look for. Symptom guide here: https://go.usa.gov/xp6gs

12/27/2020

Children under 5 have a higher risk of food poisoning because their immune systems are still developing. Keep them safe from foodborne illness this holiday season by avoiding certain foods. #FoodSafeHoliday

12/26/2020

Reheating leftovers today? Whether reheating in the oven or in the microwave, bring all leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. #FoodSafety

12/25/2020

Happy Holidays from Food Safety! We wish you a joyous day of cheer and #FoodSafety!

12/24/2020

Making cookies tonight? Say no to raw dough!

12/23/2020

Attention bakers – Don’t let your holiday pies spoil! Pies that contain eggs or milk should be refrigerated within 2 hours. Fruit pies are safe for only 2 days at room temp, but 1 week in the fridge! #FoodSafeHoliday

Address

U.S. Department Of Health And Human Services
Washington D.C., DC
20201

General information

We welcome your comments on the page for FoodSafety.gov. We encourage you to share your comments and ideas. But to protect your privacy, please do not disclose personally identifiable information, such as an e-mail address, home address or phone number for yourself or others. Before you submit a comment, please review these guidelines. - STAY FOCUSED: We welcome all viewpoints, but make sure that your comments are relevant to FoodSafety.gov. - BE RESPECTFUL: Personal attacks, profanity, and aggressive behavior are prohibited. Instigating arguments in a disrespectful way is also prohibited. - TELL THE TRUTH: Spreading misleading or false information is prohibited. - DO NOT INCLUDE SPAM: Repeated posting of identical or very similar content in a counter-productive manner is prohibited — this includes posts that either promote services or products or link to Web sites promoting services or products. We reserve the right to: - Determine which comments violate this comment policy - Remove posted comments that violate this policy.

Telephone

(888) 674-6854

Website

www.FoodSafety.gov https://twitter.com/#!/foodsafetygov https://twitter.com/#!/FoodSafetyEsp http://www.foodsafety.gov/r

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when FoodSafety.gov posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to FoodSafety.gov:

Videos

5 Signs of Severe Food Poisoning

Did you know it could take days before you develop symptoms of food poisoning after eating a contaminated product? Know when to see a doctor. https://go.usa.gov/xPqvx

Washing Chicken

People that wash chicken always tell us they do a “really good job at cleaning after.” Our results showed…that’s not true. 76% of participants who washed or rinsed chicken in a recent study did not attempt to clean & sanitize the sink after doing so. #Dontwashchicken #Foodsafety

Washing Raw Poultry: Our Science, Your Choice

Last year, USDA released the results of a study which revealed the dangers of washing or rinsing poultry. Avoid foodborne illness in your kitchen, #dontwashchicken

If you’re dining out, make sure you continue to practice #foodsafety from the time you eat at the restaurant to the time you put the leftovers in your fridge.

Handwashing Results

Nearly every single person who attempted to wash their hands during meal prep in our recent study did it wrong, without using all 5 steps. You’re spreading dangerous bacteria by not washing your hands! Wash your hands & do it often. (Especially when cooking!)

63% Handwashing

Do you wet your hands before applying soap when you wash your hands? This may sound like a given but our study showed that 63% of people who “washed” their hands failed to actually wet their hands first…🤯😰

Washing Chicken

Rinsing chicken can spread germs to your kitchen sink. These germs can contaminate utensils or other food and make you sick. Stay safe: Skip the rinsing and cook your chicken to 165ᵒF. #FoodSafety https://go.usa.gov/xVcyg

How to Thaw Foods Properly

Remember, leaving food out on the counter to thaw all day is not safe. If you have a frozen product that you’d like to enjoy, practice these 3 safe ways to thaw food safely instead. #FoodSafety

4 Steps to Food Safety

Are you checking your steps? These 4 simple steps are essential to preventing foodborne illness when preparing food in your home: 1. Clean — Wash hands and surfaces often. 2. Separate — Don't cross-contaminate. 3. Cook — Cook to the right temperature. 4. Chill — Refrigerate promptly.

Lingering Bacteria

People that wash chicken always tell us they do a “really good job at cleaning after.” Our study showed that’s not true. 76% of participants didn’t even attempt to clean & sanitize the sink after washing or rinsing chicken. And of those that did try, nearly everyone failed. 🤨🥴

Consumer Research - Handwashing

Protect Yourself When Eating Out

Making plans for a romantic night out for your special Valentine this Friday? Don’t ruin the weekend by letting your Valentine get foodborne illness! Avoid getting sick by using these 4 food safety tips when choosing places to eat!

Super Bowl Tips

Don’t forget the halftime swap! Enjoy the halftime performance with fresh sides. Swap out items like dips that have been out for a while with fresh ones straight from the fridge! #SuperBowl

Super Bowl LIV Food Safety Tips

🚩 Flag on the play! Don’t forget, the ONLY way to tell if foods like burgers & wings are safe at your #SuperBowl party is by checking the temperature with a food thermometer. And yes, placement matters! 🍔= 160°F 🍗🍗 = 165°F

How to Thaw Foods Properly

Habits to leave in 2019: leaving food out on the counter to thaw all day! Not only is this considered unsafe; it could lead to foodborne illness! Practice these 3 safe ways to thaw food safely instead!

Four Steps to Food Safety

Only a Scrooge would let their guests get sick this holiday. Say Bah Humbug to not handling food safely! Remember to follow the 4-steps to #FoodSafety this holiday season with these reminders ↓ #HumbugDay

26%

If you wash chicken before cooking chances are you’re contaminating all the other items you prepare with your meal, too. People who washed their chicken in our recent study contaminated their side salads 26% of the time.

Holiday Festive

The holidays are amongst us! Join us all month long as we dash through #FoodSafety tips that are sure to keep you & loved ones safe from foodborne illness during this festive time of year! #HolidayFoodSafety ❄️❄️

4 Steps to Food Safety

Give the gift of preventing foodborne illness this holiday! By following 4 simple steps, you can help keep your family & friends safe from foodborne illness & in good health. Be sure to practice them all season long. #GivingTuesday #FoodSafety

74% Handwashing Fails

Washing your hands? Does it matter? Research shows it does! In our recent study we asked participants to prepare a meal. We were shocked to find they didn’t even attempt to wash their hands 74% of the time it was needed for safety. #HandwashingAwarenessWeek

How to Use a Food Thermometer

Do you know how to tell when a turkey is done? 20% of participants in our recent study used visual cues to make sure their chicken was done. Using a thermometer is the ONLY way to make sure you destroyed any illness causing bacteria, such as Salmonella or Campylobacter.

Food Safety & Kidney Disease

Happening today!🎉 Join us & American Kidney Fund for a special #FoodSafety webinar @ 1 PM ET. Learn the best ways to safely prepare meals for groups & the important steps kidney patients should take this holiday. Register for FREE at: http://bit.ly/2pqmQaR #Thanksgiving #HolidayCooking

National STEM Day

Happy National STEM Day! What's your favorite STEM field? Tell us below ⬇️🚀⭐️🔭 #NationalSTEMDay

60%

60% of participants contaminated their sinks after washing their chicken during our study. What’s the big deal? 14% still had bacteria in their sinks after they attempted to clean. If you remember from our last study, bacteria can linger on surfaces for up to 32 hours!

Plan Thanksgiving Like A PRO

✅ Plan ✅ Organize ✅ Prepare ✅ Shop ✅ Get Ready! You’ll be sure to host your Thanksgiving dinner like a PRO with our exclusive prep guide! Not hosting Thanksgiving this year? Share with someone who is!

Food Safe Tips!

We fell back on time but don’t fall back on #FoodSafety! By following 4 simple steps, you can help keep your family safe from food poisoning. Be sure to practice them all year long.

Protect Yourself When Eating Out

Happy Saturday! Going out for lunch or ordering take-out for dinner? Make sure you know these 4 simple tips to prevent & protect yourself from food poisoning, even while dining out! #FoodSafety

Handwashing Results

A whopping 99% of those who attempted to wash their hands during meal prep did it wrong, without using all 5 steps. You’re spreading dangerous bacteria by not washing your hands! Wash your hands & do it often. (Especially when cooking!)

The FoodKeeper App

Celebrate #WorldFoodDay by reducing waste & saving money through the FoodKeeper App. DYK our FoodKeeper app offers guidance on 600+ food & beverage items? And we just added 85 new items! Download it FREE here: https://go.usa.gov/xV9ud