In the realm of home food safety, the advice to “cook it thoroughly” has long been the cornerstone of preventing Salmonella and other foodborne illnesses . While achieving a safe internal temperature is a critical final step, a dangerous journey for harmful bacteria often unfolds long before food reaches the pan. A robust body of scientific evidence and public health guidance now reveals that the most significant risks in home kitchens lie in the unseen pathways of cross-contamination, the nuances of kitchen tool selection, and common but misguided food preparation habits. Moving beyond basic advice to embrace a holistic understanding of these processes is essential for effectively safeguarding household health.
The battle against Salmonella begins with recognizing that the bacteria can b