Check for cleanliness: Buy from retailers who follow proper food handling practices. Ask yourself if the food looks and smells clean.
Keep certain foods separated: Separate raw meat, poultry and seafood from other food in your shopping cart. Place these items in plastic bags to prevent their juices from dripping on other food.
Inspect cans and jars: Don't buy food in cans that are bulging or dented, and those in jars that are cracked or have loose or bulging lids, or whose seal seems tampered with or damaged.
Inspect frozen food packaging: Don't buy frozen food if the package is damaged. Packages should not be open, torn or crushed at the edges. Avoid packages that are above the frost line in the store's freezer. If the package cover is transparent, look for signs of frost or ice crystals. Choose another as this could mean the food has either been stored for a long time or been thawed and re-frozen.
Select frozen foods and perishables last: Meat, poultry, fish and eggs should be the last items placed in your cart. It is important to refrigerate perishables as soon as possible after shopping. They should not be left at room temperature for longer than two hours.
Choose fresh eggs carefully: Before buying, open the carton and make sure the eggs are clean and none is cracked. Buy only refrigerated eggs and follow the 'safe handling instructions' on the carton.