A question posed by a talk show panel is turning into a viral debate. Should you wash your raw meat or poultry prior to cooking?
It's a conversation sparked by the Canadian TV show "The Social," which turned into a hot debate online.
11Alive turned to the experts to VERIFY the answer.
QUESTION
Should you wash your raw meat or poultry?
ANSWER
No.
EXPLANATION
According to the FDA and USDA, washing these foods is not recommended and in fact, may lead to the spreading of bacteria.
The FDA posting: "Do not rinse raw meat and poultry before cooking. 'Washing these foods makes it more likely for bacteria to spread to areas around the sink and countertops,'" says Marjorie Davidson, a consumer educator.
In fact, experts say splashing water can spread contaminants up to three feet.
"Using a food thermometer is the only sure way of knowing if your food has reached a high enough temperature to destroy foodborne bacteria," according to the FDA.
