Four Steps (Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill) to Food Safety | Food Safety | CDC

Four Steps (Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill) to Food Safety | Food Safety | CDC

Four Steps (Clean, Separate, Cook, Chill) to Food Safety

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Following four simple stepsexternal icon at home — Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill — can help protect you and your loved ones from food poisoning.

Clean: Wash your hands and surfaces often.external icon

• Germs that cause food poisoning can survive in many places and spread around your kitchen.
• Wash hands for 20 seconds with soap and water before, during, and after preparing food and before eating.
• Wash your utensils, cutting boards, and countertops with hot, soapy water.
• Rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water.