(It’s a helpful reference for cooking just about any dish to the correct temperature.)

Whatever variety you choose, food thermometers are wonderful tools for any home cook.

To avoid this risk, keeping an eye on your food the whole time you’re cooking is critical.

Vegetables lined up on chopping board

Don’t leave the kitchen area while food is cooking.

If you must leave, first shut off the burner.

Many home cooks are diligent about monitoring their food as it cooks.

USDA FoodKeeper app bananas

Distractions can definitely happen, however, so staying alert for potential fires is the next best step.

Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen at all times.

For smaller grease fires, you may use baking sodanot waterto put it out, according toFireRescue1.

USDA FoodKeeper app prepared meals

With this in mind, check that the smoke detector in your kitchen functions well and contains fresh batteries.

If its time for a new one, consider asmart smoke alarmwith carbon monoxide detectors as well.

You and your home will be safer for it.

USDA FoodKeeper app whole chicken

Beyond that, you might be inviting some nasty bacteria to your dinner party.

To make it easy, use a chafing dish or asmart kitchen gadgetlike an Instant Pot.

For chilly dishes, keep a cooler stocked with ice on hand.

Use Fresh Foods Quickly

Ever pull something out of your refrigerator you dont recognize anymore?

It happens to almost everyone from time to time.

For the most part, its generally advised to consume fresh foods soon after purchase.

Scrolling the app is a handy way to review the best times to consume just about anything.

The app is an especially helpful companion when you’re cleaning out the pantry or refrigerator.

Download:USDA FoodKeeper foriOS|Android(Free)

6.

These can help you decode complicated food labels and identify potential allergens in long ingredient lists.

Namely, when was the last time you sanitized your phone?

Don’t forget to wash your hands frequently while cooking.

It’s a super-simple way to keep using your phone or tablet while cooking without potential contamination.

Using hot water or leaving food out on the counter for hours may encourage bacteria to start multiplying.