Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans addresses food safety. In particular, it mentions NOT washing poultry before cooking. The rationale being that when consumers attempt to wash poultry, especially a turkey, they risk getting meat juices all over the sink and counter. As they try to get the bird under the faucet, the two may come in contact with one another contaminating the faucet. Food borne pathogens may even be splashed all over the kitchen creating an ever greater food safety risk. Consumers need to be made aware of the importance of NOT washing meat and poultry before cooking. They are also reminded of the importance of hand washing as a tool in controlling the spread of pathogens.

Response:
Extension has used print and television media to educate consumers in Eastern Iowa . Most recently, both handwashing and washing food were mentioned in an Extension newsletter. These points were further stressed on several television segments aired on the local network affiliate on Midday News and on Thanksgiving Day. There were four 4-minute segments shared on the early morning and midday news program. The topics were:

1. hand washing – how to and how long to wash, what to use – soap vs. sanitizers, how to dry your hands – paper towel preferred;
2. how to safely cook a frozen turkey. USDA is encouraging consumers to cook the bird frozen to reduce the risk of meat juices contaminating the kitchen and the preparer;
3. how to test for doneness of the turkey; temperature of bird, dressing, testing the thermometer for accuracy;
4. serving the turkey and storing leftovers; making sure consumers know not to leave food at room temperature and how many days it may be safety stored in the refrigerator and freezer.

Impact:
Several consumers commented in person about appreciating the hand washing information. Further, an 80+ year old consumer called to question why we didn't re-wash poultry before cooking. After explaining the rational of the new guideline, the consumer understood it was a good recommendation and agreed to share the information with her family. Another consumer called to express thanks to ISU Extension for saving their Thanksgiving Dinner. Their turkey was still frozen at roasting time, but rather than panic, they turned to the directions supplied by Extension and safely prepared the frozen turkey. The caller shared it was delicious and moist. They were ecstatic that Extension had shared this timely information that contributed to safety as well as a tasty meal.

Contact:
Jan Temple
Johnson County Extension
4265 Oak Crest Hill Rd, SE
Iowa City, IA 52246
319-337-2145
mjtemple@iastate.edu