![](https://enewsletters.k-state.edu/youaskedit/files/2023/06/hamburgers-july4-260x260.png)
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Celebrate July 4th with the four steps to food safety!
- Clean—Always wash your hands before handling food and eating. Wash them after handling raw meats.
- Separate—Keep raw foods away from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross contamination. Consumer research has shown that 32% of had contaminated plates and cutting boards. And don’t forget spice containers! Of those surveyed, 12% had contaminated spice bottles.
- Keep Hot Foods Hot! – Keep hot foods above 140°F during serving. If outside on hot days above 90°F, store leftovers within one hour.
- Keep Cold Foods Cold! – Keep cold foods below 40°F. Again, refrigerate leftovers within one hour on hot days.
Source: USDA Press Release