FOOD SAFETY TIPS FOR FROZEN PRECOOKED MEATS
To ensure proper handling, storage and preparation of
frozen precooked meats, follow these tips from the American
Dietetic Association:
Buying
- Select your frozen meats after shopping for non-perishables
- Make sure the packaging is tightly sealed and is very cold to the touch
- Check the "sell-by" date — do not purchase food with an expired "sell-by" date
Storing
- Make sure the freezer temperature is set at or below 0° F
- Defrost frozen meatballs or chicken nuggets in the refrigerator or in the microwave — never on the counter
- Defrosted meatballs or chicken nuggets should be eaten within 3-4 days
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
- The label gives proper cooking and storage procedures
- Defrost meat in the refrigerator or in the microwave —never on the counter— by using the defrost setting
- Immediately cook meat after it has been thawed in the microwave
- Do not re-freeze thawed meat
- Use a meat thermometer to cook to proper temperature
- Cook ham to a minimum of 140° F
- Don’t leave meatballs or chicken nuggets unrefrigerated for more than two hours
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