Food can cause foodborne illness when conditions in the environment encourage bacterial growth.
The importance of handwashing cannot be overemphasized. Don't let juices from raw meat, poultry or seafood come in contact with cooked foods or foods that will be eaten raw, such as fruits or salad ingredients. Wash hands, counters, equipment, utensils and cutting boards with soap and water immediately after use. Thaw foods in the refrigerator, never at room temperature. When using a microwave oven to thaw food, cook it immediately after thawing.