Washing raw chicken with dish soap before cooking is not a recommended practice and should not be done. In fact, it is potentially hazardous and can lead to foodborne illnesses.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other food safety organizations advise against washing raw chicken or any other meat with soap or detergent. Washing chicken with soap can spread bacteria and pathogens to other surfaces in your kitchen, such as countertops, utensils, and cutting boards, leading to cross-contamination.
Raw chicken can often contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter. When you wash chicken, water droplets can splash and spread these bacteria, making it more likely for you to ingest or come into contact with them.
To safely handle raw chicken, follow these guidelines:
Keep it separate: Store raw chicken in a sealed container or plastic bag to prevent any leakage or cross-contamination in the refrigerator.
Clean surfaces and utensils: After handling raw chicken, wash your hands, cutting boards, knives, and any other utensils that came into contact with the chicken thoroughly with hot, soapy water.
Cook to the proper temperature: Cooking chicken to the recommended internal temperature (165°F or 74°C) will kill any harmful bacteria present.
Avoid washing: There's no need to wash raw chicken before cooking it. Cooking it thoroughly will take care of any bacteria.
The posts you see of people washing raw chicken with dish soap may indeed be jokes or misunderstandings, but it's essential to know that it's not a safe or appropriate practice. Always prioritize food safety and follow recommended guidelines to prevent foodborne illnesses.