There is a lot of talk about our food supply being targeted by terrorists. Is there anything that I can do to keep the food I am eating safe?

The following are steps to prevent food-borne illnesses, including gastrointestinal anthrax. These steps should be taken regardless of any bioterrorism threat. Precautions beyond these are not required. The steps are:

  • Chill - Refrigerate or freeze perishables, prepared food, and leftovers within two hours and make sure the refrigerator is set at no higher than 40°F and that the freezer unit is set at 0°F.
  • Clean - Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces with hot, soapy water before and after food preparations. Uncooked foods such as fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed before eating.
  • Cook - Foods must be heated at a high enough temperature and long enough to kill harmful bacteria. A shortlist of proper cooking temperatures are roast and steaks to 145°F, ground beef to 155°F, pork to 155°F, poultry to 165°F, and any stuffed meat to 165°F. Leftovers should be reheated to 165°F.
  • Separate - Keep raw meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood, and their juices away from ready-to-eat foods; never place cooked food on a plate that previously held raw meat or poultry, uncooked eggs, or seafood. Make sure to clean all cutting surfaces, utensils, and dishes with hot, soapy water before preparing additional food items.

Show All Answers

1. Who should I call if I have questions about anthrax?
2. Who should I call if I receive a suspicious letter or package?
3. Who should I call if I believe I have been exposed to anthrax?
4. What should I keep in mind as I open my mail?
5. What should I do if I receive a suspicious letter or package?
6. What will law enforcement do?
7. What happens if there has been an exposure?
8. Does my doctor know how to recognize anthrax?
9. Should I take antibiotics to prevent getting anthrax?
10. Can a person get screened or tested for anthrax?
11. There is a lot of talk about our food supply being targeted by terrorists. Is there anything that I can do to keep the food I am eating safe?