01 · Clean
Wash hands and surfaces
Wash with soap before preparing food and after handling raw meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, rubbish or pets. Clean knives, boards and worktops between tasks.
Safe habits for every kitchen
Cook with care.
Serve with confidence.
Food safety is part of a good recipe. Use these practical reminders alongside current official guidance and food packaging instructions.
02 · Separate
Prevent cross-contamination
Keep raw meat, poultry and seafood away from ready-to-eat foods. Use separate cutting boards where possible and wash equipment thoroughly between tasks.
03 · Cook
Use a food thermometer
Follow official safe internal-temperature guidance for the specific food and your location. Colour and cooking time alone cannot reliably confirm that food is safe.
04 · Chill
Store food promptly
Keep chilled foods refrigerated, put leftovers away promptly in shallow containers and follow local storage-time guidance. If you suspect food is unsafe, throw it away.
05 · Allergens
Check every label
Review ingredient labels every time, particularly when cooking for someone with an allergy. Prevent cross-contact and never promise an allergen-free meal unless you can verify the preparation.
06 · Reheat
Reheat thoroughly
Follow official guidance for reheating and leftovers. Heat food thoroughly, avoid repeated cooling and reheating, and do not leave perishable food at room temperature for extended periods.
These tips are general information, not a substitute for official guidance. US readers can consult FoodSafety.gov and the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service. Follow local rules wherever you live.