Although many microorganisms are harmless, some can cause food to spoil, which would make it look, smell, or taste bad. Food poisoning is also caused by microorganisms, but these microorganisms cannot be detected by the look, smell or taste of the food. According to Willie Burgess, Extension specialist in Foods and Nutrition at Purdue University, there are four main ways that food is mishandled in the home. Inadequate hand washing, improper heating and cooling, cross-contamination, and insufficient cooking may allow harmful microorganisms to get into your food and grow. Washing your hands frequently is an easy way to keep microorganisms from spreading as you touch things.
Hand washing is only one step to ensure food safety.
Cross contamination, the transfer of microorganisms from one item to another, can occur even before the food comes from the grocery store. To prevent microorganisms on raw meat from getting on produce in the shopping cart, put both produce and meat in plastic bags. When putting foods away in your refrigerator, make sure that the meat does not drip onto food below it. Cross-contamination can occur if counter tops, utensils, and cutting boards are not cleaned and sanitized between uses. Scrub in hot, soapy water 2.