An important part of offering healthy food at your food pantry is making sure the food is safe to eat. Every year, foodborne illness affects more than 48 million individuals in the United States alone, and food pantry visitors may be more susceptible to serious consequences from foodborne illness than the general population. Pantries can create a safe food environment by:

• Putting Safe Food on the Shelf
• Transporting, Handling, and Storing Food Properly
• Following the rule: When in Doubt, Throw it Out
• Supporting Clients in Handling Food Safely