Dr. Oz: Don't Poison Your Guests

Holidays are for breaking bread with loved ones, but make sure you are not poisoning your guests. I’m not joking. Food illnesses are responsible for 2,500 deaths a year in the U.S.

Remember to keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods in your grocery cart and fridge, and store these items in sealed containers.

Before you start slicing and dicing, begin by scrubbing your hands with warm water for at least 20 seconds, and then dry them with a clean towel. Also, wash cutting boards and utensils with hot water, before and after each use.

Use a food thermometer, and make sure your food, including meat and fish, reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees for at least 15 seconds.

This holiday season, practice kitchen safety, so no one ends up with an achy stomach, or worse.