Raw Food Safety For Your Dog

Are you worried about your family or pet getting sick due to raw food? No need to fret. The risk lies in cross-contamination from harmful bacteria. However, with proper sanitation and storage of your pet's raw food, this risk can be significantly reduced.

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Raw pet food can indeed increase exposure to harmful bacteria, but don't let that scare you. Here's a simple 6-step guide to minimise cross-contamination and keep everyone safe:

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1. Food Separation

Raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs are potential carriers of pathogens. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare and store them separately from other foods. Use separate cutting boards and keep these items apart in the fridge.

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2. Clean Produce, Not Meat

Washing raw meat can actually spread bacteria, increasing the risk of cross-contamination. However, washing fruits and veggies is a must to remove any unwanted residue.

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3. Chill Raw Pet Food

Maintaining your fridge temperature below 4.5 degrees Celsius (40F) is recommended. Bacteria thrive in the temperature "danger zone," between 4.5 degrees Celsius (40F) and 60 degrees Celsius (140F). Therefore, refrigerate raw pet food within 7 days to minimise bacterial growth.

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4. Freeze and Thaw wisely

Freeze raw pet food for long-term storage. Thaw it by placing it in the fridge. Avoid thawing in hot or warm water or microwaving it, as it promotes bacterial multiplication.

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5. Sanitize Your Space

Ensure your prep space is always clean. Sanitize countertops, cutting boards, utensils, and pet's eating bowl after every use.

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6. Practice Good Hygiene

Washing your hands is a simple yet effective way to prevent bacterial spread. Always wash your hands after handling raw pet food and cleaning the prep area.

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Remember, feeding pets a raw diet doesn't pose more risk than preparing raw meats for humans. By following these simple steps, you can ensure a safe and healthy environment for everyone.