(HealthDay News) -- Cutting boards can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned properly.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics offers these suggestions:

• Buy two cutting boards, and use only one for raw seafood, poultry and meat. Use the other for produce, bread and other ready-to-eat foods.
• Use each cutting board only for its intended purpose, and do not mix them.
• Put cutting boards in the dishwasher after each use, or thoroughly clean them with hot, soapy water.
• If your cutting board is old or has knife scars, crevices or cracks, throw it away.