Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Food Safety: Tips for Grocery Shopping

Overview

There are things you can do while shopping to help prevent food poisoning. Here are a few tips.

  • Separate raw foods from other food items.

    Put raw meat, poultry, eggs, fish, and shellfish in separate bags. Don't mix them with other food items.

  • Check the packaging for leaks or tears.

    Do not buy meat or poultry that has a tear in the package or is leaking.

  • Get chilled food last.

    Pick up your refrigerated and frozen items at the end of your shopping trip. This way they'll be unrefrigerated for a shorter period of time.

  • Go straight home.

    Go directly home after you shop so you can store all foods properly. If it will take you a long time to get home, think about getting a portable cooler for foods that could spoil.

  • Check canned food for any damage.

    Do not buy canned food if the cans are dented, leaking, bulging, or rusting.

Credits

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.