The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) has partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the International Food Information Council (IFIC) and home appliance manufacturers to launch the “Cook it Safe” campaign.
“Food safety has long been the number one priority for America’s frozen food producers,” said Kraig R. Naasz, president and CEO of McLean, Va. AFFI. “AFFI is proud to be a partner in this campaign, which will do much to ensure the millions of Americans who enjoy frozen foods are equipped with the knowledge they need to fully and properly cook them.”
The campaign focuses on the importance of fully cooking pre-prepared foods in order to prevent foodborne illness, and is anchored on four key messages:
- Read and follow package cooking instructions;
- Know when to use a microwave or conventional oven;
- Know your microwave wattage before microwaving food; and
- Always use a food thermometer to ensure a safe internal temperature.
The centerpiece of the campaign is a pair of public service
announcements (PSA) that will be delivered to 800 television stations nationwide. The PSAs encourage consumers to know their microwave wattage and know when to use a microwave or conventional oven.
In addition, campaign partners will publish a series of blog entries, each focused on the campaign’s four key messages, and distribute an informational brochure and home appliance magnet promoting safe cooking tips. In addition, campaign partners also hosted a live Twitter chat on Sept. 16 in order to engage consumers and interested professionals about the campaign.
