7 tips for good food hygiene
Promoting health through diet is not just about eating healthy products. Food safety is also an essential part of taking care of our bodies. In other words, ensuring that the food we consume is properly sanitized.
A number of pathogenic microorganisms can cause health problems. From abdominal pain and weakness, to more severe cases of foodborne infections. Click Here for Food safety course
Diseases transmitted by poorly sanitized food
Most caused by bacteria (and their toxins), viruses and parasites.
We ingest these microorganisms in poorly sanitized, undercooked food or food that is contaminated after being prepared. This occurs due to a lack of adequate refrigeration or basic hygiene care.
Salmonella:
Infection occurs through the ingestion of Salmonella bacteria, present in poorly cooked food, generally from animals raised on farms. We can mention beef, pork, chicken, eggs and even milk.
It is worth remembering that foods that are sensitive to heat, such as mayonnaise, also encourage the proliferation of this type of bacteria when left out of the refrigerator for a long time.
Nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, high fever, body aches and headaches are common symptoms of this type of infection.
Escherichia coli infection
Infection caused by the E. coli bacteria usually causes mild to moderate fever and diarrhea.
Botulism:
Considered rare, the infection is caused by the toxin of the bacteria Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium, which can commonly be found in preserved foods (such as hearts of palm and pickles); in honey, cheeses cured meats (such as sausages, salamis and ham).
The great danger of the disease is that the toxin produced by the bacteria attacks the nervous system, preventing communication at the nerve endings. Therefore, the most common symptom of infection includes muscle paralysis. In this case, rapid treatment is necessary.
Step by step guide to sanitizing food the right way:
As we have seen, properly sanitizing food prevents a series of health-related problems. Most diseases cause only mild symptoms. However, any stomach pain can be a major nuisance.
Therefore, it is essential that food is cleaned as soon as it arrives at your home.
- Before you start, wash your hands thoroughly: This is the first step towards safe eating, as most bacteria, viruses and other parasites are transmitted through contact with our hands.
- Wash food under running water: All products, including fruits, vegetables, legumes and even packaged foods, should be washed under running water to remove dirt, chemical residues and bacteria present on the surface.
- Pay attention to fruits, vegetables and legumes: These foods tend to have a greater quantity of microorganisms present in the soil where they are grown. Additionally, transporting these products from the field to your home can expose them to new parasites.
- Sanitizing these foods is also important to remove excess pesticides. The substance is used in planting to keep pests away and speed up the production process.
Remember: Do not use food that is in swollen, rusty or cracked packaging. Always check the product’s expiration date and ensure that the food is suitable for consumption.
Dry food thoroughly: After washing, it is important to dry the products with clean paper towels or let them dry naturally on a dish drainer.
In addition to sanitizing food, it is essential to keep kitchen utensils, cutting boards and work surfaces clean and disinfected to avoid cross-contamination.
Be careful when storing products: After the cleaning process, food must be stored correctly – each one has its own specific characteristics. Therefore, pay attention to the products that should be kept in the refrigerator, as well as the goods that require a ventilated or humidity-free place.
There you go, now you can eat more safely. Take the opportunity to download our booklet on dietary fads, an exclusive resource on fad diets that are harmful to your health, are easily found on the internet and can have negative effects on your body.
