Food safety
Separate raw food in shopping bags
Wrap raw meat, poultry, and seafood separately from cooked and ready-to-eat food.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-09
Why it matters
Raw juices can leak during transport and transfer germs to food that will not be cooked again.
Wrong action
Putting a leaking raw-meat pack with bread, fruit, or cooked food.
Correct action
Bag raw food against leaks, carry it separately, and place it on the designated lower shelf at home.
What to do
- Check raw packs for damage or leaks.
- Use a separate leak-proof bag for meat, poultry, or seafood.
- Keep away from ready-to-eat food and refrigerate promptly.
If something happens
If anyone becomes severely ill, vomits repeatedly, has breathing difficulty, or becomes unresponsive after eating, stop serving, call 999, and keep packaging and remaining food.
Sources and review
- Centre for Food Safety — Five Keys to Food Safety guidance
Last reviewed: 2026-09-09
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.