Be food safe

Ingesting harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites and natural toxins can all lead to foodborne illness. It is estimated that there are approximately 11 million cases of food-related illnesses in Canada every year.

The good news is that consumers can prevent most cases of foodborne illness by following the four steps to food safety: Clean. Separate. Cook. Chill.

Research shows that a majority of Canadians understand and follow safe food-handling practices, but many do not use these practices daily. More than half of those Canadians surveyed said they sometimes defrost meat and poultry at room temperature. Yet this practice can allow bacteria to grow on food, and can lead to illness.

You can reduce the risk. Play it food safe in your kitchen.

Four steps to food safety

1. Clean: Wash hands and surfaces often.
2. Separate: Avoid cross-contamination between food products such as raw meat and vegetables.
3. Cook: Cook to safe temperatures (use a food thermometer).
4. Chill: Refrigerate promptly.

For more about the four lessons of food safety, visit the Be Food Safe and the Canadian Partnership for Consumer Food Safety Education websites.

Kids need to learn about food safety, too. Find fun activities like "The Food Safety Wheel" game that teaches kids about the four steps to food safety.

More tips on food safety:

• safe food handling
• kitchen food safety tips

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