The multi-state outbreak of Salmonella Heidelberg associated with raw chicken products from Foster Farms continues. To date, there have been over 300 cases nationally, including 15 cases in Washington State. Salmonella, the name of a group of bacteria, is one of the most common causes of food poisoning in the United States.
Cowlitz Health Department would like to share these simple tips to help prevent you and others in your household from potentially becoming sick with Salmonella or other similar bacteria.
When preparing chicken to eat or feed other people:
• Cook all chicken to 165°F to destroy harmful bacteria; use a meat thermometer to check internal temperatures of the chicken
• Wash hands, utensils, cutting boards, sinks, and countertops with soap and water immediately after they have been in contact with raw chicken
• Do not let raw chicken juices leak onto cooked or ready to eat food
• As with all foods you can return chicken to the store if you have concerns about its safety
For additional information related to the multi-state Salmonella outbreak and consumer information about the chicken products related to the illness, please visit the Washington State Department of Health website below.