January 2010 Ask a question En español
Several free publications and websites review food safety in general as well as specific issues for people living with HIV/AIDS. Readers are encouraged to review these booklets, some of which have overlapping safety information.
Hotlines
Two hotlines answer questions about safe food handling, consumer issues, and food safety in restaurants. These are answered Monday–Friday, 10am–4pm ET, and their menu choices offer callers topics for listening from frequently asked questions.
Food and Drug Administration Hotline
1-888-SAFEFOOD (1-888-723-3366)
This hotline can answer questions about the safe handling of seafood, fruits and vegetables, as well as rules that govern food safety in restaurants and grocery stores.
USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline
1-888-674-6854, TTY 1-800-256-7072
This hotline can answer questions in English and Spanish about the safe handling of meat and poultry as well as many other consumer food issues.
Publications and websites
“Safe Food Handling: Food Safety for People with HIV/AIDS” is published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service. Copies may be obtained by calling 1-888-674-6854 or emailing fsis.outreach@usda.gov. A shorter fact sheet of Safe Food Handling: Food Safety for Persons with HIV/AIDS is also available from this source.
Safe Food and Water—Issues for People Living with HIV/AIDS is from the CDC’s Division of HIV/AIDS Prevention.
Food Safety for Persons Living with HIV/AIDS at AIDS Nutrition.
Two publications on the special handling of refrigerated, ready-to-eat foods to avoid listeriosis are available at www.cfsan.fda.gov and at www.cdc.gov in English and Spanish.
Safe Handling of Raw Produce and Fresh-Squeezed Fruit and Vegetable Juices is published by the FDA and can also be ordered by calling 1-888-SAFEFOOD (1-800-723-3366).
Other internet resources are www.fightbac.org of the Partnership for Food Safety Education, and the CDC’s Ounce of Prevention Program featuring “Seven Keys to a Safer Healthier Home”.
Project Inform provides information from other sources but does not necessarily endorse or support the information contained in these resources nor confirm that every fact is accurate. This information is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor, dietitian or health care provider. We encourage you to wash your hands often, and to take charge of your food!