Christmas Cooking: Essential Tips to Keep Your Holiday Meals Safe from Illnesses and Temperature Risks

The holiday season is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to share joy and create memorable moments with loved ones. With Christmas approaching, it’s important to start planning for a festive and flawless celebration. But alongside the fun and excitement, hosts must also be mindful of food safety to ensure everyone enjoys the festivities without any health concerns.

A recent study led by Kimberly Baker at Clemson University shared valuable tips to help ensure a safe and delicious holiday meal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over a million people fall ill each year due to foodborne illnesses, with salmonella being a primary pathogen found in poultry. Following proper food preparation, washing, and cooking methods is key to making sure your holiday feast is both tasty and safe.

Foodborne Illnesses:

Pathogens like salmonella, E. coli, listeria, and norovirus can contaminate food at any stage of the supply chain— from farming to preparation. Therefore, everyone handling food must take responsibility for ensuring it’s safe to consume.

Handwashing:

Personal hygiene is a crucial part of food preparation. Always wash your hands thoroughly before cooking. Apply soap, scrub your hands well, rinse until the soap lather is gone, and dry them completely before handling food.

Avoid Washing Poultry:

Contrary to common belief, raw poultry should not be washed. The USDA advises against washing poultry as it can spread harmful pathogens in the kitchen, especially to foods like salads that won’t be cooked.

Maintain a Clean Kitchen:

Start by sanitizing your kitchen before you begin cooking. Using chlorine bleach to clean surfaces can help prevent contamination and ensure a safe environment for preparing food.

Cooking Meat at Safe Temperatures:

Before cooking, make sure the meat is fully thawed in the refrigerator, allowing enough time for the thawing process based on the quantity. To ensure safety, it’s crucial to cook poultry to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F. This will help eliminate any harmful pathogens and keep your holiday meals safe for everyone to enjoy.

By following these simple food safety tips, you can ensure your Christmas celebration is filled with delicious, safe meals, and happy guests!