How do you prepare raw chicken for cooking? Do you rinse it thoroughly under running water? Or perhaps you soak it in milk to clean it and remove odors? While these actions may seem like the right way to handle raw ingredients, did you know they could actually put your family’s health at risk?
Don’t Wash Raw Chicken Under Running Water—Why Not?
According to Health Canada and the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, washing raw chicken under running water can cause dangerous bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter to splash and spread to your sink, countertops, or other food items, leading to cross-contamination and food poisoning. Even a single droplet of water can carry bacteria to nearby surfaces.
Safe Cooking Temperatures for Poultry
The good news is, cooking poultry (including chicken, turkey, and duck) to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) kills harmful bacteria, making it safe to eat.
If You Still Feel the Need to Wash It
Raw chicken sold in stores has already been sanitized during processing, so there’s no need to rinse it. However, if you feel uneasy skipping this step, try one of these methods:
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Blanching in Boiling Water
- Submerge the chicken in boiling water for a few minutes.
- Transfer it to a bowl of cold water and gently rinse it within the bowl. Avoid splashing water in the kitchen or onto other food items.
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Pat Dry with Paper Towels
- Instead of washing, gently pat the chicken’s surface with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Tips for Handling Raw Chicken Safely
- Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
After touching raw chicken, wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before handling other ingredients or kitchen tools. - Use Separate Tools
Use a dedicated knife and cutting board for raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination. - Prepare Chicken Last
Chop other ingredients first, and handle raw chicken as the final step in your preparation. - Defrost in the Refrigerator
Never defrost chicken at room temperature. Use the refrigerator to thaw it safely. - Consume Promptly
Try to cook and eat chicken soon after purchasing it for maximum freshness and safety.
By following these tips, you can safely enjoy your chicken dishes without the risks of cross-contamination or foodborne illness!
