When preparing food for you and your family, it is important to keep safety in mind. Children younger than 5 years old are at risk for foodborne illness because their immune systems are still developing.

Learn important food safety steps to keep your child safe from foodborne illness.

Visit Foodsafety.govexternal icon for tips on keeping food safe for children younger than 5 years old or visit CDC’s page on Food Safety.

Visit CDC’s Food Safety After a Natural Disaster for information on how to feed your child safely after a natural disaster. In the event of a natural disaster, be prepared for challenges, which may include power outages, unhealthy living spaces, and unsafe water. Always check with local authorities on the status of the drinking water and follow boil water advisories.