Kitchen Smarts

Here are some tips from the Food and Drug Administration to help keep foodborne illness at bay in the kitchen:

• Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before starting to prepare a meal and after handling raw meat or poultry.

• Cover long hair with a net or scarf, and be sure that any open sores or cuts on the hands are completely covered.

• Keep the work area clean and uncluttered. Wash countertops with a solution of 1 teaspoon of chlorine bleach to 1 quart of water or with a commercial kitchen-cleaning agent diluted according to product directions. These are the most effective at getting rid of bacteria.

• Be sure to keep dishcloths clean because, when wet, they can harbor bacteria and may promote their growth. Use a fresh dishcloth each day.