Which practice is essential for preventing E. coli contamination?

Cooking food thoroughly is crucial for preventing E. coli contamination because it effectively kills harmful bacteria, including E. coli, that may be present in raw or undercooked foods. When food, especially meats, is cooked to the appropriate internal temperatures, it ensures that any pathogens are destroyed, significantly reducing the risk of foodborne illness.

In contrast, practices like soaking meat in water do not adequately address the risk of bacterial contamination, as they may only spread bacteria around without killing them. Freezing dairy products does not kill bacteria; it merely halts their growth, meaning that once the product is thawed, bacteria can become active again. Washing hands with alcohol can help to some extent, but it is generally less effective than soap and water in removing all types of pathogens, including those that could cause E. coli infections. Therefore, thorough cooking remains the most effective method for ensuring food safety and preventing E. coli and similar bacterial contaminations.