Foods can become contaminated by microorganisms (bacteria and viruses) from many different sources during the food preparation and storage process. Follow these steps to prevent cross-contamination and reduce hazards to food:

• Wash your hands with warm, soapy water for 20 seconds before preparing food, between handling different foods, or after using the toilet, changing diapers, or handling pets. And wash them again before, during and after handling raw meats and foods.
• Wash and sanitize all equipment, cutting boards, and utensils that come in contact with food.
• Avoid touching your face, skin, hair, and cell phone, or wiping your hands on cleaning cloths.
• Store foods properly by separating washed or prepared foods from unwashed or raw foods.
• Never use the same knife for raw meat, poultry or seafood to chop produce or ready-to-eat foods.
• Do not use the spoon you use to prepare food to taste the food. And if you do, do not put back in the pot after putting in your mouth