Stop Washing Chicken Before Cooking: Expert Warns of Hidden Salmonella Risk That Could Spread Dangerous Contamination

The

debate over whether to wash raw chicken before cooking has long divided kitchens, especially in households across India. However, food safety experts are now urging people to rethink this common habit, warning that it may do more harm than good. According to global authorities like the World Health Organization and the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, washing raw poultry actually increases the risk of dangerous kitchen contamination, rather than helping you cook clean.Also read: Why Dipika Kakar Swears by Fresh Ground Black Coffee For Liver Health

Why is washing chicken before cooking risky?

According to Ahana Nazar Hafis, a food safety officer from Qatar, washing chicken leads to bacterial cross-contamination from the splashing water. Raw chicken often contains harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter. When you rinse chicken under running water, tiny droplets can splash onto nearby surfaces, utensils, and even other foods. These contaminated droplets can travel up to one metre, significantly increasing the chances of cross-contamination and foodborne illness. “Chicken looks dirty from the local shops…washing chicken is not recommended because it can spread bacteria. But I received many messages from local butchers asking about the chicken, with visible dirt, blood, feathers, or even small wood pieces. This is only for cases with visible dirt, not for routine washing. In such cases, if you still feel the need to clean it, don't wash it under running tap water. Instead, wear gloves and use a large bowl of water to gently clean it inside,” she told her followers on Instagram.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ahana Nazar Hafis | Qatar Food Creator🇶🇦 (@letstalkfood._)

When washing may be necessary?

Despite these warnings, many people still feel compelled to wash chicken, especially when it comes from local markets where visible dirt, blood, or feathers may be present. Hafis acknowledges this concern and offers a safer alternative for such situations. Instead of washing chicken under running water, she recommends submerging it in a bowl of still water. This method reduces splashing and limits the spread of bacteria. Wearing gloves while handling raw poultry further minimizes contamination risks.

What is the correct way to handle raw chicken?

If you must clean chicken due to visible debris, follow these safety steps:

• Use a large bowl of water instead of a running tap
• Avoid splashing while handling the chicken
• Wear gloves to prevent direct contact
• Clean and sanitize all surfaces immediately afterward

It is crucial to remember that washing alone cannot kill harmful bacteria. The only reliable way to eliminate pathogens is through proper cooking.

Cooking temperature matters

To ensure food safety, chicken must be cooked thoroughly. Experts recommend heating it to an internal temperature of at least 75°C. At this temperature, dangerous bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter are effectively destroyed, making the food safe to eat. Using a food thermometer can help ensure accuracy, especially when preparing large portions or whole poultry. After handling raw chicken, always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Additionally, sanitize cutting boards, knives, sinks, and countertops to prevent lingering bacteria from spreading. Maintaining good kitchen hygiene is essential not just for chicken but for all raw foods. Cross-contamination is one of the leading causes of foodborne illnesses, and simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk. Food safety is not about blindly following habits – it is about understanding the science behind them. While washing chicken might feel like a necessary step, it can actually increase health risks if done incorrectly. By following expert advice and adopting safer handling practices, you can protect yourself and your family from harmful infections.