With the recent outbreak of bird flu, consumers are increasingly concerned about the safety of consuming products like milk and chicken. Experts affirm that these foods remain safe as long as proper precautions and standard cooking practices are followed.
Bird flu, or avian influenza, primarily affects birds and is rarely transmissible to humans. There is no evidence to suggest that bird flu can be transmitted through the consumption of properly cooked poultry or eggs, as the virus is destroyed at temperatures reached during cooking (165??F or 74??C).
Regarding milk, the virus has no impact on dairy products as it is specific to birds. Dairy products undergo pasteurization, a process that eliminates pathogens, making milk and other dairy items safe for consumption.
Consumers are advised to practice general food safety measures: ensuring poultry is fully cooked, avoiding cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables, and washing hands thoroughly when handling raw meat. By adhering to these guidelines, the risk of any foodborne illness is significantly minimized, keeping individuals and families safe during bird flu outbreaks.
