Holiday food safety urged

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – As the Fourth of July draws nearer, the Oklahoma Department of Health is urging the public to be wary of possible foodborne illnesses during the long holiday weekend.

State health officials say about one in six Americans – or as many as 48 million people – become sick with a foodborne illness every year.

To prevent illnesses on Independence Day, officials recommend people wash their hands for 20 seconds with soap and running water before, during and after handling food.

Officials say that to avoid cross-contamination, people should use separate cutting boards, plates and utensils for fresh fruits and veggies and for raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs.

In addition, all meat products should be cooked to the correct temperature, and easily spoiled foods should be refrigerated within two hours.