The purpose of this publication is to provide information about best practices to maintain safety standards for products sold by local food entrepreneurs. Regulations vary in each state, so be aware of your location’s specific requirements.

Did you know that proper hand washing is the single most important way to help prevent the spread of illness? Clean your hands thoroughly to help prevent germs from spreading from person to person and throughout a community.

Chef's should not depend on their instincts, cooking time, oven temperature or product appearance to determine when a product is done: thermometers are important tools for protecting foods.

This manual assists specialty crop growers who have an interest in increasing food safety on their farm, documenting good agricultural practices, or becoming certified through the USDA’s Good Agricultural Practices and Good Handling Practices (GAP&GHP) audit verification program.

A 3½-ounce portion (before cooking) of game meat provides about half of the daily adult protein requirement and 130 to 150 calories. Game meats are usually slightly lower in total fat but higher in polyunsaturated fats than grain-fed beef.

The most succulent wild game can be destroyed by improper handling in the field or improper cooking at home. The handling of the meat from harvesting to preparing can make a major difference in flavor and safety of the end product. The purpose of this publication is to provide information on proper care and cookery of wild game so you can fully enjoy the fruits of the field.

Pickling is one of the oldest known methods of food preservation. Pickled foods add a special touch to many snacks and meals.

James L. Smith, a microbiologist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, wanted to find the answer to the question of why seniors are more at risk for foodborne illness. He reviewed data from foodborne outbreaks at nursing homes, and compared the immune and digestive systems of seniors and younger individuals, as well as evaluating the overall physical well-being of seniors.

Smart food choices can help reduce the risk for chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke and osteoporosis. These are the leading cause of death and disability among Americans.

Prevent foodborne illness with these four simple steps to prepare food safely at home