Grocery shopping is a routine task that most people approach without a second thought. However, each trip to the store presents numerous opportunities for cross-contamination, improper food handling, and exposure to pathogens that can cause foodborne illness. With millions of foodborne illness cases occurring annually in the United States alone, adopting safe grocery shopping habits can significantly reduce personal risk. Here’s a comprehensive guide to grocery shopping with food safety in mind.
1. Plan Ahead with Food Safety in Mind
Safe grocery shopping begins before you enter the store. Organizing your shopping list by department can minimize the time perishable items are left out of refrigeration. Plan to pick up cold, frozen, and raw meat items last, just before heading to the check