State officials are hoping you’ll take a little time to learn about proper food preparation and handling this month. September is “Food Safety Education Month” in Iowa. Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals director Kevin Tezhau runs the agency responsible for inspecting the 23-thousand restaurants and grocery stores in the state.He says food-borne illnesses can occur anywhere food is prepared and eaten.Last year, there were 20 confirmed cases of food-borne illness in the state, and some were connected to private homes. Tezhau’s department is working with commercial food preparers to educate them, and he hopes you’ll take a few simple steps at home such as washing your hands.He says you can help his department by reporting any problems you find in restaurants and stores.Tezhau says most food-borne illnesses can be prevented.