Kroger’s Family of Stores Remind Customers to Chill, Clean, Separate and Cook

As Summer Grilling Season Approaches, Easy Food Safety Steps Are Key

CINCINNATI, Ohio. – As the summer grilling season approaches, The Kroger Co.’s (NYSE: KR) family of stores is reminding customers about the four keys to safe grilling: Chill, Clean, Separate and Cook:

CHILL: Keep cold foods cold
• Use a cooler or chill bag to keep meat cold on the way home.
• Set refrigerators to 40° F.
• Thaw meat in the refrigerator.

CLEAN: Wash kitchen surfaces often
• Wash hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds before and after handling food.
• Wash cutting boards, dishes and utensils often.

SEPARATE: Don’t cross-contaminate
• Separate fresh meat from other food.
• Keep cutting boards and utensils separate to prevent spreading germs.
• Place cooked food on a clean plate.

COOK: Cook food to a safe temperature
• Use a food thermometer every time you cook fresh meat.
• Cook ground beef and pork to 160° F to ensure it’s safe and delicious.

“Grilling out with family and friends is a terrific summer pastime we can all enjoy. At Kroger, we are partnering with our customers to remind them to follow these easy food safety tips so that every cookout is a success,” said Joe Grieshaber, group vice president of Kroger’s meat, seafood, deli and produce departments.