Minced beef is without a doubt one of the staples of the modern world. Whether you like to enjoy yours in hamburger patties at a barbecue, as part of a casserole, or wrapped in a pastry.
It’s important to always observe safe preparation and handling practices to avoid contamination and possible food borne illness. Observe these important tips in order to make sure you and your loved ones stay safe.
Choosing Minced Beef Carefully
When shopping for minced beef at the grocery store, you should take care to select it among the last of your items to ensure that it doesn’t have to go too long without being refrigerated. Always be sure to select a package that feels appropriately cold. Pay attention to the attached expiration date and select from the back of the refrigeration case whenever possible.
When you’ve purchased minced beef or any other perishable good, be sure to go straight home from the store. Refrigerate the meat immediately upon arrival.
Proper Handling and Cooking
When thawing frozen minced beef, be sure to do so in the refrigerator or – barring that – by using your microwave’s defrost setting. Never, ever leave minced beef or any other perishable to thaw on the counter.
In order to ensure that your hamburger is completely safe to eat, cook it thoroughly for doneness. Never eat raw hamburger and refrain from eating ultra-rare burger that hasn’t been brought up to temperature in the middle according to a meat thermometer.
Hamburger meat can be cooked to safety in a variety of ways – including the oven, a skillet, a grill, or even your microwave – but it is nevertheless important to make sure it’s always cooked to completion.
Always be sure to refrigerate cooked hamburger items within 2 hours in order to ensure leftovers remain safe to eat.
