Food safety tips are essential to protect your health and prevent foodborne diseases. According to WHO, contaminated food is responsible for more than 600 million illnesses every year. By adopting simple food safety tips you can reduce these risks and make your food safe and healthy. This blog will provide you with 11 practical tips that will help you.
Table of Contents
1. Washing hands is a must
Dirty hands spread foodborne diseases like Salmonella and E. coli. Studies say that 50% of people do not wash their hands before cooking. Washing hands thoroughly for 20 seconds prevents contamination to a great extent.
2. Store food at the right temperature
Home storage creates the ideal environment for harmful bacteria. According to the USDA, food becomes unsafe in just 2 hours if kept between 40°F and 140°F. Always keep perishables in the refrigerator and check with a thermometer to see if the refrigerator is at 40°F or below.
3. Cook meat at the right temperature
Undercooked meat is the cause of many diseases. According to the CDC, undercooked chicken alone causes more than 1 million illnesses each year. Use a meat thermometer and make sure poultry is cooked to 165°F and steak to 145°F.
4. Avoid cross-contamination
Cross-contamination carries germs from raw to ready-to-eat foods. A study says that 60% of households in kitchens do not keep raw meat and fresh produce separate. Separate cutting boards and utensils and sanitize surfaces.
5. Rinse Fresh Produce Properly
Fresh fruits and vegetables can carry pesticides and bacteria. Research says that 20% of foodborne illnesses are caused by unwashed produce. Wash fruits under running water and clean hard fruits with a brush.
6. Check Expiry Dates Regularly
Expired products lose not only quality but also safety. A 2022 study found that consumers underestimate the expiry risks of dairy and meat. Check the expiry date and throw away expired items immediately.
7. Do not leave food out for too long
Leaving cooked food out for too long gives bacteria a chance to grow. According to the FDA, if food is out for more than 2 hours under normal conditions, it becomes unsafe. Do small servings and keep leftovers in the fridge immediately.
8. Clean the kitchen regularly
A dirty kitchen is a hotbed for germs and pests. Research says sponges, sinks, and countertops are germ hotspots. Disinfect the kitchen daily, wash sponges, and keep pests away.
9. Keep your leftovers safe
Leftovers stored improperly can cause disease. Studies show that reheated leftovers are stored at unsafe temperatures. Store leftovers in airtight containers, reheat them to 165°F, and finish them within 3 days.
10. Use safe water
Contaminated water is dangerous for cooking and washing. According to WHO data, unsafe water can cause illnesses such as cholera. Use filtered or treated water to reduce the risk of contamination.
11. Educate Yourself on Food Safety
Lack of awareness is the cause of food mishandling. Case studies show that educational programs reduce illnesses by up to 30%. Read the labels, attend training sessions, and understand the best practices for food safety.
