Eating Well As You Get Older

Frequently Asked Questions

46. How can I keep raw and ready-to-eat foods separate?

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To prevent the transfer of harmful bacteria, separate raw and ready-to-eat foods while shopping and when preparing or storing them. When handling raw meat, poultry, fish, seafood, and eggs, keep these foods and their juices away from ready-to-eat foods. Use one cutting board for fresh fruits and vegetables and a separate one for raw meat, poultry, fish, seafood, and eggs. Don't place cooked food on a plate that held raw meat, poultry, fish, seafood, or eggs unless you first wash the plate with hot, soapy water.