The first step is to keep your hands and all surfaces and
utensils that come into contact with food clean. Keep hands
clean: Nearly half of all cases of foodborne illness could be
eliminated by proper hand washing. Remember to wash your hands:
When washing your hands, keep in mind that a quick rinse under
the faucet won't do the trick. Wash your hands in hot, soapy
water for at least 20 seconds (some people count this by singing
"Happy Birthday" twice). Scrub thoroughly -- front and back --
all the way up to the wrists, over and under the fingernails,
and in between fingers. Rinse your hands and use paper towels or
a clean cloth to dry. If you have an open wound or cut, prevent
contamination by wearing rubber gloves while handling food.
Clean fruits and vegetables: Wash raw fruit and vegetables under
running water before eating or preparing them. If needed, remove
surface dirt with a vegetable brush, and cut away damaged or
bruised areas of produce, as they may contain bacteria. Keep
dish cloths, towels, and