December 4, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov
The Chesapeake Health Department Encourages Healthy Holiday Baking Traditions
From Oven to Table: Healthy Tips for Holiday Treats
CHESAPEAKE, Va. – The holiday season is the perfect time to gather in the kitchen, roll out dough, and share sweet traditions with family and friends. To help keep those cherished baking moments joyful and safe, the Chesapeake Health Department offers simple tips to ensure your holiday treats bring smiles to the table instead of unwanted illnesses.
“I love cookies!” said Dr. Nancy Welch, director of the Chesapeake Health Department. “My favorite treat is an oatmeal raisin cookie. I allow myself one a day (oatmeal is healthy, right?) so I can enjoy my treat without feeling the need to overindulge. A little treat goes a long way in creating happiness.”
Holiday baking involves using several raw ingredients like eggs and flour. By following these tips, you can protect loved ones from foodborne illness while creating delicious memories.
- Use Fresh Ingredients. Check the expiration dates on your baking supplies, especially if they have been in the pantry since last year. When in doubt, throw it out.
- Wash Your Hands. Wash your hands before preparing to bake and after handling any raw ingredients. Remember to wash your hands after using the bathroom or changing diapers.
- Skip Licking the Spoon. As tempting as it may be to sample your work in progress, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against . Batter and dough contain raw ingredients like eggs and flour, which can cause foodborne illness.
- Clean as You Go. Wash bowls, utensils, cutting boards and countertops with hot, soapy water before and after preparing each food item. Not only does it keep your work area clean, but washing any surface that comes in contact with raw ingredients prevents cross contamination.
- Bake thoroughly: Follow recipe instructions to ensure baked goods reach safe internal temperatures.
- Store leftovers safely: Refrigerate perishable baked goods, such as those containing fresh dairy, cream cheese, whipped cream, or fresh fruit within two hours.
Little helpers make baking more fun. Keep an eye on children around hot ovens, sharp tools, and raw ingredients to ensure safety.
The Chesapeake Health Department wishes everyone a safe, sweet, and festive holiday season. For more safety tips, visit fightbac.org/flour-safety/
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