The CDC and USDA: “Don’t Wash the Meat!” Me: “That Meat Is NOT Clean!”
For the past several years, the CDC and USDA have both been advising the American people that we should not wash meat before we cook it. They both say that doing so can spread dangerous germs, beginning, of course, with the kitchen sink. To be fair, the USDA article tries to be more useful to those of us who spend hours each week cooking and cleaning in the kitchen, though their guidance is only for preparing a turkey for brining:
If you must rinse the turkey and clean out the cavity, first take the time to remove dishes, dish drainers, dish towels, sponges and other objects from around the sink area. Then cover the area around your sink with paper towels. (Boldface mine)
And yes, I’m aware that most meat processing plants make an effort to maintain the safety and cleanliness of their workspace and product. But if I’ve learned anything in life, it’s that businesses — basically, any place driven by the profit motive — will slash expenses to maintain profitability, even if it means cutting corners in health and safety.
For that reason, I say the government got this one wrong.
Me, I’m a science-loving, big-government-appreciating liberal, so when the government comes out with sensible science-based recommendations, I’m usually all for the new guidance…
