As springtime holidays approach, the Florida Department of Health reminds Florida residents and visitors to put safety at the top of their priority list.

Eggs, a common food of the season, need to be properly handled to prevent illness. The Health Department recommends cooking eggs thoroughly and using a food thermometer to ensure that egg-containing foods reach a safe internal temperature of at least 160 degrees.

The department also recommends all individuals practice four basic steps to prevent illness:
 

• Clean hands: Always wash hands before and after food preparation with hot water and soap, especially when handling raw animal products such as raw eggs.
• Beware of cross-contamination: Wash kitchen equipment in hot, soapy water, before and after food preparation.
• Cook: Cook eggs until the yolks and whites are firm. Do not eat raw batter containing raw eggs.
• Chill: Refrigerate eggs and egg-containing foods. Do not leave perishables at room temperature for more than two hours.