Top 3 ways to keep meat safe

Whenever possible, buy certified organic meat

Organic meat is always produced without antibiotics, or meat labeled “no antibiotics added.” Although organic animals still may carry bacteria, a 2009 research review found significantly higher multidrug resistance in conventional meat samples than in organic meat products. And buying organic helps curtail excessive antibiotic use. The bottom line: Handle and cook all meats appropriately.

Practice food safety at home

Keep a separate cutting board for meat, and wash board, knives, countertops, and hands thoroughly with a natural antibacterial soap.

Cook meat thoroughly

Drug-resistant salmonella and E. coli are intestinal bacteria so, like their nonresistant counterparts, they are usually killed with thorough cooking.