No one wants to receive the gift of getting sick this holiday season, and how you prepare your holiday meals could make a difference.
Infectious Disease Dr. Lea Monday with Detroit Medical Center appeared on “Live In The D” to share some helpful advice when you’re in the kitchen cooking your holiday meals.
First, the doctor stressed the importance of washing your hands, food, and tools. Monday also explained that you don’t want to use the same cutting board and tools for vegetables and meats, unless it’s been washed in between uses.
Next, Dr. Monday highlighted the need to follow appropriate food temperatures for cooking. She also mentioned the two-hour rules, which is that any meats or dips that are left out for two hours should be thrown away.
There are some foods you’ll want to avoid snacking on this holiday season, and that includes cookie dough. According to Dr. Monday, it’s not just the raw eggs that could pose a risk, but raw flour can also have bacteria.
Pregnant women, kids under 5, adults 65 and over, and people with compromised immune systems can be especially vulnerable to food poisoning. The most common symptoms of food poisoning are nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Watch the video above to learn more about food safety.