Health officials launch campaign to reduce food poisoning at home

Federal officials and the Ad Council are joining hands for a humorous public service campaign aimed at reducing food poisoning in the home.

The "Food Safe Families" campaign coincides with the July 4 weekend and the start of the summer grilling season. It consists of several television public service announcements depicting safe food-handling techniques, created pro bono by the ad agency JWT New York.

"Our food safety strategy is based on preventing food safety problems, and these efforts must begin where food is produced and continue where food is processed and marketed," Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said in a statement. "Consumers also play a role in preventing food safety problems by properly handling, preparing and storing food in the home. This campaign will help consumers understand their role in farm-to-table safety.

• Clean: Clean kitchen surfaces, utensils and hands with soap and water while preparing food;

• Separate: Separate raw meats from other foods by using different cutting boards;

• Cook: Cook foods to the right temperature by using a food thermometer;

• Chill: Chill raw and prepared foods promptly.

One in six Americans — some 48 million people — suffer from foodborne illnesses every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Departments of Agriculture and the CDC are also involved in the campaign, which will include radio, print and Web advertising.