Food safety is a crucial aspect of maintaining good health and well-being. Every year, an estimated 600 million people globally fall ill from eating contaminated food, leading to approximately 420,000 deaths. This significant health burden affects all age groups, but children under the age of five are particularly vulnerable, accounting for about 125,000 of these deaths annually (World Health Organization (WHO)) (UN News).
Foodborne illnesses are caused by consuming food contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances. These contaminants can lead to over 200 diseases, ranging from diarrheal diseases, which are the most common, to more severe conditions like cancers (UN News) (World Health Organization (WHO)). The economic impact is also substantial, with unsafe food causing an estimated $110 billion in productivity and medical expenses annually in low- and middle-income countries (World Health Organization (WHO)) (Outbreak News Today).
To combat these challenges, global organizations like the WHO and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) are working tirelessly to improve food safety standards and practices. However, there are simple steps you can take at home to ensure the food you and your family consume is safe. Food Safety Tips from Diet Design
Essential Food Safety Tips
Wash Hands and Surfaces Often
Always wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling food. Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces and utensils regularly to avoid cross-contamination.
Separate Raw and Cooked Foods
Use separate cutting boards, plates, and utensils for raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
Cook Food to Safe Temperatures
Use a food thermometer to ensure that foods are cooked to the right temperature to kill harmful bacteria. For example, cook poultry to at least 165°F (74°C).
Chill Foods Promptly
Refrigerate perishable foods within two hours. Keep the refrigerator temperature at or below 40°F (4°C) and the freezer at 0°F (-18°C).
Avoid Unsafe Food and Water
Drink water from safe sources. Avoid eating raw or undercooked meats, eggs, and seafood. Be cautious with unpasteurized dairy products.
Handle Food Safely During Preparation
Avoid preparing food if you are ill, particularly with symptoms like diarrhea or vomiting. Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator, cold water, or the microwave, not on the counter.
Be Aware of Food Recalls and Alerts
Stay informed about food recalls and safety alerts. If a food product has been recalled, do not consume it.
Educate on Food Safety Practices
Spread awareness about safe food handling practices among family members and within the community to ensure widespread adherence to food safety standards.
By implementing these practices daily, you can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and enjoy your meals with peace of mind. Let's make food safety a priority together!
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Stay healthy and safe,
Nausheen Zeri
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