Sanitation Certification Practice Test

What must be included on the label for all raw or partially cooked meat and poultry?

1. Cooking suggestions

2. Safe food handling instructions

3. Nutrition facts

4. Expiration date

The correct answer is: Safe food handling instructions

On the label for all raw or partially cooked meat and poultry, safe food handling instructions are essential. This requirement is in place to ensure that consumers clearly understand how to handle these products safely to prevent foodborne illnesses. Raw and partially cooked meats can harbor harmful bacteria that could pose a health risk if not managed properly during storage, preparation, and cooking. Including safe food handling instructions helps educate consumers about practices such as washing hands, using separate cutting boards for meats and vegetables, cooking meat to the appropriate internal temperature, and maintaining safe refrigeration practices. By following these instructions, consumers can significantly reduce the risk of contamination and ensure that the meat products are handled in a way that minimizes the chance of illness. Other choices, such as cooking suggestions, nutrition facts, and expiration dates, while useful, are not mandatory on the labels of raw or partially cooked meat and poultry products. Their absence does not directly impact food safety in the same vital manner as safe handling instructions.