Every year, one in six Americans become ill from foodborne illness. Many times, these illnesses are traced back to improperly cooking foods, especially convenience foods. The Partnership for Food Safety Education has a education effort entitled Cook It Safe! to help consumers learn about safe cooking.
Not all convenience foods are intended to be heated or cooked in a microwave. Many are conventional oven use only. So, always read and follow the cooking directions on the package. If a microwave can be used, know the microwave wattage to know how much time it will take to heat the food. Finally, always use a thermometer to safely reach the proper internal temperature. Many convenience foods need “stand time” after cooking to allow the food to reach safe temperatures.
Learn more about the Cook It Safe! program at www.fightbac.org/food-safety-education/safe-microwaving/.
