COLUMBUS, Ohio — The United States Department of Agriculture wants to remind Americans to keep food safety in mind ahead of the Independence Day holiday.
Much of the agency’s advice comes down to four words: clean, separate, cook and chill.
The agency recommends good handwashing and cleaning surfaces often to reduce the risk of spreading disease and of cross-contamination.
Food should be cooked thoroughly and measured with a meat thermometer, according to the USDA, and stored in a cold place as soon as possible.
Most leftovers can still be eaten for three to four days.
