How to Kill Salmonella Bacteria
Salmonella bacteria is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness. More than 2,000 different bacteria belong to the salmonella family, and all can cause serious symptoms of food poisoning, such as vomiting and diarrhea. The bacteria's most notorious ticket into the human body is through contaminated food or through cross-contamination during food preparation. However, some simple preventative steps will help you kill salmonella before it enters the body to wreak havoc on your gastrointestinal tract.
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Instructions
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Killing Salmonella Once and for All
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Cook raw meat thoroughly to the proper internal temperature based on the type of meat. Roasts, chops, other beef cuts and fish should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Poultry and reheated leftovers should be cooked to 165 degrees F. Soups and sauces should be reheated to boiling.
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Properly refrigerate and freeze your food. Refrigerate food as soon as possible after buying. Always thaw food in the refrigerator; never thaw at room temperature, as this encourages bacteria growth. Make sure your refrigerator's temperature is set to no higher than 40 degrees F.
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Separate raw meat and fish from other food when grocery shopping and storing at home. Treat cutting boards and plates that carry raw meat as "untouchable" once used and never place other food on them before washing. Prepare raw meat in a separate location or on a different cutting board when preparing a meal.
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Wash hands, utensils and kitchen surfaces thoroughly with hot, soapy water. Avoid reusing towels and sponges used to clean kitchen surfaces without first washing them or "zapping" them quickly in the microwave.
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Tips & Warnings
Use disposable paper towels to clean kitchen surfaces instead of dish towels.
Always cook eggs thoroughly; eggs should not be slimy or runny.
Be careful when cleaning up after your family pets. Always wash hands thoroughly after disposing of animal waste.
Avoid eating products containing raw food ingredients where salmonella may hide, such as certain creamy dressings and unpasteurized cheese, as well as cake and cookie batter.
