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Here are some of the most common food safety mistakes people make. Don't worry if you do these things sometimes; just be glad you know not to do them now!

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Mistake #1: Tasting food to see if it's still good

Never taste your food to check if it has spoiled. You can't taste, see or even smell the bacteria that causes food poisoning, and tasting just a tiny bit of contaminated food can cause serious illness. Throw away all expired food before harmful bacteria grows.

Mistake #2: Putting cooked or ready-to-eat foods back on a plate that held raw meat

Never let raw meat, poultry or seafood touch cooked meat or any ready-to-eat foods, as this can cause cross-contamination. Foodborne pathogens from the raw meat can easily spread to ready-to-eat foods and cause food poisoning. Always use separate plates, cutting boards and utensils to keep raw meats, poultry and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods.

Mistake #3: Thawing food on the counter

Never thaw food on the counter. Harmful foodborne pathogens multiply rapidly when foods are in the danger zone between 40°F and 140°F. Instead, always thaw foods in the refrigerator, cold water or in the microwave.

Mistake #4: Washing meat or poultry

Never wash raw meat or poultry because the water can easily spread bacteria to your sink, countertops and other kitchen surfaces. Only wash raw fruits and vegetables.

Finished!

These are some common mistakes we've seen a lot of people make, so clearly there's a lot many of us can learn about food safety.

Tell Us Your Food Safety Tips!

Article Source: Eat Right