Frozen Precooked Meats

You may already follow certain food safety steps when handling raw meat and poultry. But did you know frozen, precooked meats require certain steps for safe handling, too? Here are some tips for buying, storing and preparing these foods.

Buying

• Select refrigerated and frozen foods, including frozen meats, after shopping for non-perishable items.
• Make sure the packaging is tightly sealed and is very cold to the touch.
• Check and purchase items before the "sell-by" date listed on the package.

Storing

• Make sure the freezer temperature is set at or below 0°F.
• Defrost frozen meats in the refrigerator or in the microwave — never on the counter.
• Use meat within three to four days of thawing.

Preparing

• Wash hands thoroughly for 20 seconds before handling food.
• Use two separate cutting boards to avoid cross-contamination — one for raw foods and the other for ready-to-eat foods.
• Refer to the preparation instructions on the package for proper cooking and storage procedures.
• Use a food thermometer to confirm food has been cooked to the proper temperature.
• Don't leave frozen meat at room temperature for more than two hours.