VERIFIED NOTE · August 30, 2026
Do Not Wash Raw Chicken
Does rinsing raw chicken make it safer?
Three things to remember
- Cook raw chicken without rinsing it first.
- Splashing water can spread contamination around the sink and nearby food.
- Use a food thermometer to confirm 165°F / 74°C in the thickest part.
Why it matters
USDA FSIS does not recommend washing raw chicken before cooking. Rinsing is not a safety step: splashing water and juices can spread contamination to the sink, counters, utensils, and nearby food.
How to apply it
Move chicken directly from its package to the cooking vessel. Wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds after handling it, and clean utensils and surfaces that touched raw poultry with hot, soapy water; sanitize when appropriate.
Final check
Do not judge doneness by color or juices alone. Insert a food thermometer into the thickest part and verify a minimum internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C.
Sources checked
Last verified: August 30, 2026