How many things that you have learned about food safety have been by word of mouth over the years? Did you know that there is a chance you were unknowingly given false information? There are so many things people believe about food safety that just aren’t true.

September is National Food Safety Education Month. Because of this let us get a couple of these food myths busted thanks to the USDA!

Let’s break these down a bit as far as my household is concerned. I will list each of the above Myths and our mindset on them prior to learning the facts through this campaign.

Myth #1: “If I microwave food, the microwaves kill the bacteria, so the food is safe.” No way! Considering when you put things in the microwave they never heat evenly, why would I count on it to kill bacteria?? 

Myth #2: “I don’t need to use a food thermometer. I can tell when my food is cooked by looking at it or checking the temperature with my finger.” While my Husband is wonderful about using a food thermometer, I am not. I just over cook the crap out of meats because I’d rather them be over cooked than make us sick. It’s a good thing he does most of the cooking of meats as I can’t stand the sight of raw meat.

Myth #3: “I can’t re-freeze foods after I have thawed them – I have to cook them now or throw them away.” This one apparently my Husband knew. I on the other hand would throw them away and never re-freeze them! With that being said, I am very guilty of thawing meat on the counter. From here on out it will never be left out to thaw and I’ll throw it back in the freezer if we can’t make it that night!

Myth #4: “Of course I was all bagged lettuce and greens because it might make me sick if I don’t.” Nope. I’m not washing the bagged lettuce & greens. I am way too lazy for that. Actually, I need to become more diligent about washing other fruits & veggies that are not bagged before we eat them. 

How does your family stack up in your knowledge of food safety??

If you would like more information on food safety or to find more tools and educational materials you can find it at these sites: fightbac.org  or  www.foodsafety.gov/