Should you wash minced beef before cooking it?
It’s a question many people ask in the kitchen: should you wash ground beef before cooking it? The answer from food safety experts is clear: no, you should not wash ground beef .
Why shouldn’t you wash minced beef?
Contrary to popular belief, washing raw meat does not make it cleaner or safer. On the contrary, this practice can be dangerous.
1. Risk of cross-contamination:
When you wash ground beef under running water, bacteria present (such as E. coli or Salmonella ) can be splashed onto the sink, countertops, utensils, or even nearby food. This greatly increases the risk of food poisoning.
2. Water does not kill bacteria.
Rinsing with water, even hot water, does not destroy microorganisms. Only thorough cooking eliminates harmful bacteria.
3. Loss of meat quality
Washing ground beef alters its texture: the meat becomes moister, less tasty and browns poorly when cooked.
What can be done to consume minced beef safely?
