Personal Safety Precautions
Frozen feeder rodents, like any raw meat, may contain bacteria that freezing does not eliminate. To reduce risk:
Wear latex or nitrile gloves and consider using a mask when handling frozen or thawed feeders.
Avoid contact if you are immunocompromised, pregnant, or under 5 years of age.
Wash hands thoroughly with warm water and soap after handling feeders or any surfaces they contact.
After washing, applying an alcohol-based hand sanitizer provides an extra layer of protection.
Never eat, drink, smoke, or handle human food while working with animal feed items.
Cleaning & Disinfection
Always clean and disinfect tools and surfaces after handling frozen or thawed prey items:
Clean: Wash tongs, trays, tables, and food containers with hot, soapy water (preferably 180°F or higher).
Disinfect: Follow with a sanitizing solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water, ensuring full contact for at least one minute.
Dry completely before reuse to prevent bacterial growth.
Keep animal feed items and handling supplies separate from all human food preparation areas.
Thawing & Feeding
Proper thawing ensures both safety and nutritional quality:
Thaw feeders inside a refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C)—never in a sink, on a countertop, or with hot
water.
Do not microwave feeders, as this can cause uneven thawing and bacterial growth.
Feed immediately after thawing. If not eaten, discard uneaten prey—never refreeze or offer to another animal, as this can transmit disease.
Responsible Handling Protects Everyone
Nearly all reported incidents of illness or contamination stem from improper handling, not the food itself. By adhering to these best practices, you’ll protect yourself, your animals, and the integrity of your feeding program.
