Fact-Checked: “Raw Chicken” Does Not Need to Be Washed Before Cooking
Thai PBS V if raw chicken is properly packaged and handled hygienically, washing it is unnecessary. In fact, washing raw chicken may increase bacterial contamination and pose health risks. before cooking. Both nutritionists and academics confirm that if raw chicken is properly packaged and handled hygienically, washing it is unnecessary. In fact, washing raw chicken may increase bacterial contamination and pose health risks.
Source: TikTok
Fact-Checking Process
Thai PBS Verify identified a TikTok clip by @dr.benz_masterpiece, also known as “Dr. Benz,” Dr. Kosit Iaochai, a rhinoplasty specialist at Masterpiece Hospital, discussing whether raw chicken needs to be washed. The clip states:
“If your household washes raw chicken before cooking, listen up. Many people are used to washing everything before preparing food, but did you know that washing chicken is hazardous to your health?” (Recorded links available here and here.)
Reasons:
- Washing chicken in the sink causes bacteria to spread in the surrounding area. Contaminated water droplets can splash up to 80 cm, increasing the risk of kitchen contamination when rinsing chicken.
- 2. Washing chicken with bare hands, if done improperly or inadequately, can leave your hands contaminated. This could lead to the transfer of bacteria to other foods during handling.
Safe methods to handle chicken:
- Use a paper towel to absorb excess moisture from the chicken, then discard it immediately to prevent contamination.
- Blanch the chicken in boiling water to kill bacteria, ensuring the lid is closed to avoid water splashes.
- Thoroughly cook the chicken to an internal temperature of at least 75°C to effectively eliminate bacteria.
Similarly, pork and beef purchased from supermarkets, if well-packaged and visibly clean, do not require washing.
Is it Necessary to Wash Raw Chicken?
This question was posed to Dr. Watcharapol Khun-In, a lecturer in the Department of Nutrition at the Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University. Dr. Watcharapol explained that the necessity of washing meat depends on its condition. For instance, if the raw chicken is purchased from a supermarket where it is hygienically packaged or from a market where it is neatly packed, washing is unnecessary, and the meat can be cooked directly. (Recorded link)
If the purchased meat contains contaminants such as feathers, blood, or soil, it is essential to remove these impurities. The clip also highlights concerns about washing meat, as the process can dislodge dirt and potentially spread it across the kitchen, especially around the sink.
These concerns are valid because raw chicken, raw eggs, and eggshells may harbor Salmonella bacteria, Phatporn Sripirote which can cause severe diarrhea. If washing raw chicken is unavoidable, it is advised to thoroughly sanitize the washing area afterward.
This can be done using cleaning agents such as soap, soapy water, or disinfecting solutions. Alternatively, pouring boiling water over the area can effectively disinfect it. (Recorded link)
Do other types of meat need to be washed?
If the meat is already clean, there is no need to wash it, just like with chicken. However, if there are visible stains or contaminants, the meat can be cleaned. Chicken specifically does not require washing because Salmonella bacteria are naturally present in chicken but not in other types of meat.
Do Other Meats Require Washing?
However, there have been past posts sparking debate online about whether “minced pork” should be rinsed with water before cooking. (Recorded link)
In this case, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jessada Denduangboripant, a lecturer in the Department of Biology at the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, posted to the matter, stating: “Minced pork (and other meats) do not need to be washed with water unless absolutely necessary.” (Recorded links here and here)
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jessada explained that washing large cuts of meat, such as pork or chicken (a common practice among Asians), is often done with the intention of making the meat cleaner. However, this process only removes visible impurities such as fat, dirt, or soil and does not effectively eliminate harmful microorganisms, contrary to popular belief.
Today, most meat sold, particularly in supermarkets, undergoes hygienic processing standards at every stage—from the slaughterhouse to transportation, packaging, storage, and display. As a result, this meat is clean enough for consumption without requiring additional washing.
Internationally, food safety organizations in in Western countries explicitly recommend against washing meat before cooking.
Conversely, washing meat, especially chicken, can create problems and pose potential risks. Since raw meat may be contaminated with harmful microorganisms, washing it can increase the risk of bacterial spread to the sink surrounding areas, kitchen utensils, or even your hands, which may then contaminate other foods. Consuming these bacteria can lead to serious health risks.
As such, these organizations emphasize that thoroughly cooking meat is the most effective way to eliminate bacteria rather than attempting to wash it.
However, in certain situations, washing meat may be necessary or advisable, such as if it has fallen on the floor or is visibly dirty, especially when purchased from a less hygienic butcher at a fresh market.
In summary, if the meat is not sourced from a trusted producer, it can be washed to some extent. In this case, pouring hot water over it and draining the water is recommended.. However, if the meat If the meat comes from a hygienic source, washing is unnecessary Simply cooking it thoroughly will be sufficient for safe consumption.
Safe Methods for Washing Meat Before Cooking
- Rinse with Clean Water
Wash meat with clean water to remove dirt or any remaining blood stains. Use cold or room-temperature water to preserve to preserve freshness. It is best to rinse the meat in a clean sink or container. Wash gently to avoid splashing water, which could spread contaminants, and to prevent damaging the meat.
2. Use Salt or Lime
For pork or chicken, rubbing with salt or lime can help clean the meat and reduce unpleasant odors. After r ubbing, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
3. Soak in Saltwater
For certain meats, such as pork or beef, soaking in a mild saltwater solution for 5–10 minutes can help remove impurities. After soaking, rinse thoroughly before cooking.
4. Use a Clean Cloth or Paper Towel
After washing, gently pat the meat dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. This step prevents excess water from affecting the cooking process.
5. Cleaning Fish
Fish should be cleaned with salt and rinsed thoroughly with clean water, ensuring the inside of the fish’s belly is properly washed. After cleaning, pat dry with a paper towel or clean cloth.
Precautions
- Washing meat, especially chicken, can increase the risk of bacterial spread in the kitchen. To prevent contamination, avoid water splashes that could spread bacteria to kitchen surfaces or utensils. Therefore, prioritizing thorough cooking is the can.
