Howdy, Cody here again!🐔
When it comes to raising poultry, whether for eggs, meat, or just as pets, food safety is something we all need to keep top of mind. Proper handling of raw poultry can prevent harmful bacteria like Campylobacter from spreading to your kitchen and causing illness. This post is here to give you some key food safety tips that will help keep both your flock and your family safe.
Why Food Safety Matters in Poultry
Campylobacter is one of the most common bacterial causes of foodborne illness. According to research, a significant portion of chicken available at the store can be contaminated with this harmful bacteria, and it can spread through improper handling. This means whether you're dealing with your backyard flock or store-bought chicken, food safety is critical to avoid infections like campylobacteriosis.
Top Food Safety Tips for Poultry Handling
Keep It Clean
Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after handling raw chicken. The same goes for any utensils, cutting boards, or surfaces that come into contact with raw poultry. This simple practice can drastically reduce the spread of bacteria.Separate and Conquer
Never let raw poultry touch other foods, especially those that will be eaten raw like fruits and vegetables. Use separate cutting boards and knives for your chicken to avoid cross-contamination.Cook It Right
Make sure to cook your chicken to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure it’s cooked through—no guessing!Skip the Rinse
It might seem like rinsing raw chicken under water is a good way to clean it, but in reality, this can spread bacteria around your kitchen. The best way to kill harmful bacteria is through proper cooking, not rinsing.
Food Safety Labels: A Missed Opportunity?
Many consumers rely on food labels to guide them in safely preparing chicken, but according to a study conducted in New Zealand, food safety information on labels often falls short of what’s needed. Consumers express a strong desire for more detailed instructions on how to handle and cook poultry safely. This includes clear information on avoiding cross-contamination, proper cooking times, and storage tips.
Clear, informative labeling could be an underutilized tool in preventing foodborne illnesses like campylobacteriosis. So, until labels improve, make sure you're following these basic safety measures in your own kitchen!
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Healthy
Whether you're collecting eggs from your backyard flock or cooking up store-bought chicken for dinner, keeping food safety front and center is essential. By following these simple steps, you can prevent harmful bacteria from making their way into your meals and ensure that your family stays healthy.
For more tips on managing your flock and staying safe, check out my other posts HERE.
References:
Allan, P.D., Palmer, C., Chan, F., Lyons, R., Nicholson, O., Rose, M., Hales, S., & Baker, M.G. (2018). Food safety labelling of chicken to prevent campylobacteriosis: Consumer expectations and current practices. BMC Public Health, 18:414. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-018-5322-z
