Why You Should Never Wash Raw Chicken Before Cooking
For many households, washing raw chicken before cooking has long been considered a normal step in food preparation. This habit is often passed down through generations and is believed to make the meat cleaner and safer.
However, modern food safety experts strongly advise against washing raw chicken. Health authorities warn that this practice can actually increase the risk of spreading harmful bacteria in your kitchen.
Understanding why can help protect you and your family from foodborne illness.
The Myth of “Cleaning” Raw Chicken
Many people believe that rinsing chicken under running water removes bacteria and dirt. This idea dates back to a time when poultry processing methods were less advanced and visible contaminants were more common.
Today, poultry is processed under strict safety standards before it reaches grocery stores. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, washing raw chicken at home is unnecessary and potentially dangerous.
In fact, rinsing chicken does not remove harmful bacteria—it simply spreads them.
The Real Risk: Cross-Contamination
Raw chicken often carries bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which are common causes of foodborne illness.
When you wash chicken in the sink, water droplets can splash bacteria onto nearby surfaces, including:
- Kitchen countertops
- Utensils and cutting boards
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Your hands and clothing
Studies show that these droplets can travel up to 80 centimeters (about 31 inches) from the sink, spreading contamination throughout the kitchen.
In one experiment, researchers found that many people who washed chicken accidentally transferred bacteria to other foods, including ready-to-eat salads.
