What is Salmonella and how can I tell if chicken is contaminated by Salmonella?
Salmonella is a bacterium widely prevalent in the environment. It may be found in water, soil, in the intestinal tract and on the skin of humans and all other animals and birds. Because of its prevalence in nature, salmonella may sometimes be found in raw foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, unpasteurized milk and raw vegetables. Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, an illness that results in flu-like symptoms. Because you cannot see, smell or otherwise detect the presence of Salmonella, it is best to be sure you cook and handle all foods properly to avoid a problem. Salmonella is easily destroyed by heat, you can eliminate any threat to health by cooking foods to recommended temperatures and by following good food handling practices.
