RALEIGH, N.C. -- Recent scares of E. coli found in romaine lettuce, and an outbreak of Hepatitis A stemming from a North Carolina restaurant, has the USDA offering tips on foodborne illnesses.

Every summer tends to breed the perfect conditions for foodborne illnesses which results in some 3,000 deaths every year.

With the Fourth of July upon us and many families ready for a rest and relaxation, USDA food safety expert Adam Ghering sat down with Spectrum News anchor Caroline Blair to chat about how to keep our families safe.       

Ghering says it's important to separate our foods and not cross contaminate, wash our hands regularly and always after touching meat and use a meat thermometer to makes sure our food is cooked at the proper temperature.

If we have questions on a restaurants cleanliness or grade, Ghering also says to reach out to your local health department for information.

To learn more about how to prevent foodborne illness or for more information, call 1-888-674-6854 or visit the USDA’s website.

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