Safe handling of flour

OTTAWA – Health Canada is reminding Canadians that it is not safe to taste or eat raw dough, batter, or any other product containing uncooked flour, as raw flour can be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as E. coli . Flour is derived from grain, which is grown in fields. In the fields, the grain may come into direct contact and become contaminated with bacteria from soil, water or animal waste. Flour is a raw ingredient intended to be consumed cooked. Common “kill steps”, such as boiling, baking, roasting or frying, that are often used during food processing and preparation will kill bacteria that may be present in raw flour.

Do not taste raw dough or batter or any other product containing uncooked flour. Eating a small amount could make you sick. Bake or cook items made with raw dough or batter before eating them. Do not use raw flour in non-baked goods or a non-baked product, such as children's play-dough. Always use hot water and soap to wash any bowls, utensils or surfaces that flour was used on. Wash your hands with soap and warm water immediately after touching flour, raw dough or batter.