Not so, says Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service educator Julie Gray. Proper food handling practices can help people avoid these food-borne illnesses. But that doesn't mean it won't happen.
Many people are simply unaware that some of their food-handling practices can be dangerous.
To check out their food safety habits, consumers can take the following quiz, which is an abbreviated version of a test that appeared in the October 1995 edition of FDA Consumer magazine. Answer B. Refrigerators should stay at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or less to slow the growth of most bacteria. This temperature will not kill the bacteria, but it will keep them from multiplying. The fewer bacteria there are, the less likely you are to get sick. Measure the temperature with a thermometer and, if needed, adjust the refrigerator's temperature control dial.