September 25, 2024 ~ Lucy Ann Lance talks with Shanthi Appelö, Registered Dietitian and Health and Wellness Spokesperson at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Today's A Healthier Michigan focuses particularly on foodborne illnesses, which affect about 30 million people annually in the U.S. due to improper food preparation. Common bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, staphylococcus, and listeria often cause these illnesses. Appelö emphasized the risks associated with washing raw chicken, which can lead to cross-contamination, and recommended proper handling and cooking techniques, including using a thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F.