Food Safety Basics
2021 Back-to-School Food Safety Toolkit
As students, parents and caretakers adjust to a physical return to classrooms this fall, USDA reminds families to stay #FoodSafe with our Back-to-School toolkit.
Safe steps in food handling, cooking, and storage are essential in preventing foodborne illness. Whether shopping for food or preparing foods for your family, the following guidelines can guide you in keeping food safe.
General
- 2021 Back-to-School Food Safety Toolkit
- Steps to Keep Food Safe
- Cleanliness Helps Prevent Foodborne Illness
- Washing Food: Does it Promote Food Safety?
- The Color of Meat and Poultry
- Molds on Food: Are They Dangerous?
Temperatures & Food
Cooking
- Cooking with Microwave Ovens
- Deep Fat Frying
- Doneness Versus Safety
- Grilling Food Safely
- High Altitude Cooking
- Slow Cookers and Food Safety
- Smoking Meat and Poultry
- Cooking for Groups
Refrigeration & Storage
- Refrigeration
- Freezing and Food Safety
- Leftovers and Food Safety
- Keeping "Bag" Lunches Safe
- Safe Handling of Take-Out Foods
- Kitchen Thermometers
- Mail Order Food Safety
- The Big Thaw — Safe Defrosting Methods
- Shelf-Stable Food
Grocery & Packaging
- Food Product Dating
- Additives in Meat and Poultry Products
- Food Allergies
- Glossary of Packaging Terms
- Irradiation and Food Safety FAQ
- Meat and Poultry Labeling Terms
- Meat and Poultry Packaging Materials
- Natural Flavors on Meat and Poultry Labels
- Water in Meat & Poultry
Kitchen Utensils & Appliances
Food Safety Inspection & Recalls
- Inspection for Food Safety: The Basics
- Understanding FSIS Food Recalls
- How to Find the USDA Establishment Number
- Slaughter Inspection 101
- Importing Meat, Poultry & Egg Products US
Emergencies
- Keep Your Food Safe During Emergencies
- A Consumer's Guide to Food Safety: Severe Storms and Hurricanes
- Fires and Food Safety
- Removing Odors from Refrigerators and Freezers
Featured Factsheets & Resources
Last Updated: Feb 14, 2021