Why Washing Raw Chicken Could Actually Increase Your Health Risks

Washing raw chicken before cooking is a common practice in some households, with the belief that it helps remove bacteria and makes the chicken safer to eat. However, this is a misconception, and washing raw chicken can actually increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. Here’s why:

1. Cross-Contamination: When you wash raw chicken, water droplets can splash and spread bacteria from the chicken to surrounding surfaces, utensils, and even your hands. This cross-contamination can lead to the transfer of harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter to other foods in your kitchen, such as vegetables, fruits, or ready-to-eat foods, which are not going to be cooked further to kill the bacteria.
2. Ineffectiveness of Washing: Washing raw chicken under running water does not effectively remove bacteria. In fact, it can spread the bacteria on the chicken’s surface to other parts of the sink and nearby areas. Cooking the chicken to the proper internal temperature is the most effective way to kill harmful bacteria and ensure safe consumption.
3. Cooking Destroys Bacteria: Harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter are commonly found on raw poultry. However, when you cook chicken properly to the recommended internal temperature (165°F or 74°C for all poultry), it kills the bacteria and makes the meat safe to eat. Washing the chicken does not make it safer, and it might give you a false sense of security.
4. Food Safety Guidelines: Health organizations such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) advise against washing raw chicken for the reasons mentioned above. They recommend handling raw chicken carefully, keeping it separate from other foods, and using proper cooking temperatures to ensure food safety.

To minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses when handling raw chicken:

• Keep it Separate: Store raw chicken in a sealed container or a leak-proof bag on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator to prevent its juices from dripping onto other foods. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw chicken and other ingredients.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw chicken to avoid spreading bacteria.
• Cook Thoroughly: Use a food thermometer to ensure that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in all parts of the meat.

By following these guidelines and cooking chicken properly, you can safely enjoy delicious and healthy meals without the unnecessary risks associated with washing raw chicken.