Raw and Undercooked Ground Meat May Contain Harmful Bacteria

According to the USDA, raw or undercooked ground beef can contain bacteria that is harmful to the body.

It is recommended that you cook all burgers to a minimum of 160 degrees - a cooking thermometer  can easily determine the temperature of your burger.

The very young, the very old, and those who have a weakened immune system from illness should stay away from raw or undercooked meat.

The symptoms of foodborne illness are not pretty, and can include:

• diarrhea
• vomiting
• abdominal cramping
• fever

To make sure that you don't get a foodborne illness from your ground beef its important to:

• handle your raw meat carefully - bacteria from the raw meat can contaminate equipment, hands, and cooking surfaces. Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils used after handling the raw meat
• don't reuse the packaging materials
• when buying the ground beef, choose a package that is intact and cold. Also if possible, place the raw meat in a plastic bag so none of the juices leak onto other foods
• store the meat in the freezer immediately after purchasing
• cook to at least 160 degrees