Is it true that you should never place cooked food on a plate previously held raw meat?

Here's why:

* Cross-contamination: Raw meat can contain bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. Even if the meat was properly handled and stored, these bacteria can easily transfer to the plate and then to your cooked food.

* Food poisoning risk: Consuming food contaminated with these bacteria can lead to food poisoning, causing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

To prevent cross-contamination:

* Wash your plates thoroughly with hot, soapy water after they've been used for raw meat.

* Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and cooked food.

* Don't overcrowd your refrigerator: Make sure raw meat is stored separately from cooked food and ready-to-eat items.

Following these simple steps can help ensure your food is safe and prevent you from getting sick.