Is Washing Ground Meat Safe? Understanding the Risks

Learn why you shouldn't wash ground meat and how to safely handle it to prevent cross-contamination.

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Do not wash ground meat. Washing can spread bacteria around your kitchen, increasing the risk of cross-contamination. Cook ground meat to the proper temperature (160°F or 71°C) to kill any harmful bacteria.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the risk of washing ground meat? Washing ground meat can spread bacteria around your kitchen, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
  2. What temperature should ground meat be cooked to? Ground meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to kill harmful bacteria.
  3. How can I safely handle ground meat? Always wash your hands and surfaces after handling raw ground meat, and avoid washing the meat itself.
  4. Are there any exceptions to washing meat? Generally, it's not recommended to wash any meat, as it increases the risk of bacteria spread.