RICHARDSON – September is Food Safety Education Month and there are a few things people can do to help protect themselves and others from getting sick.

Here are four simple steps to prevent food poisoning: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill.

Over the next two weeks, we’ll highlight each step.

In this article we’ll focus on Separate. Remember don’t cross-contaminate. Raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs can spread germs to ready-to-eat food unless you keep them separate.

  • When grocery shopping, separate these items and their juices away from other foods. 
  • Keep raw or marinating meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs separate from all foods in the refrigerator. Store raw meat, poultry, and seafood in sealed containers or packages so the juices don’t leak onto other foods.
  • Use one cutting board or plate for raw meat, poultry, and seafood and a separate cutting board or plate for produce, bread, and other foods that won’t be cooked.
  • Don’t wash raw meat, poultry, or eggs. Washing these foods can actually spread germs because juices may splash onto your sink or counters.

Visit the CDC for more information on Food Safety Education Month.