As it says in the song Home for the Holidays, you can’t beat home sweet home for celebrating an important feast with family and friends. However, holiday meals — often prepared by several cooks, can take a turn for the worse if food safety isn’t a key ingredient in handling and cooking the food.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is giving consumers key recommendations to help them reduce the risk of foodborne illness during these holiday gatherings.

"People can give the gift of food safety: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill," said USDA Under Secretary Dr. Richard A. Raymond. "By following these recommendations, consumers will help themselves and their families be food safe this holiday season."  Keep reading here.