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As fuel that nourishes our bodies and gives us the energy to perform everyday tasks, food is crucial for the survival of all living beings on the planet. More so than most – humans are one of the most intellectually advanced race, that have mastered the techniques of agriculture, fishing and butchery with time. Food has now become a luxury, an experience to live by along with being a source of sustenance. As better food practices are constantly sought after, food has evolved but also remains a fundamental aspect of why we live. In a recently tweeted update by the World Health Organisation, 1 in 10 people fall ill each year due to consuming contaminated food. This World Food Safety Day, be more aware about a few basic practices that are integral to making meals that are hygienic, nourishing and safe, for a holistic life.
Clean Your Hands
Wash your hands with warm soapy water thoroughly before handling any kind of food, to prevent bacterial transfer. Doing so for a minimum of 20-30 seconds before wiping them dry is one of the best ways to avoid contaminating the food you will be handling.
Spotless Surfaces
Disinfect your countertops and keep your kitchen sanitized and clean at all times. Use a mild soap, clean cloth and water to clean up after cooking or prepping for a meal as chances of cross-contamination are higher when food comes in direct contact with your work surface. Similarly, ensure that all your cooking utensils, equipment and tools are cleaned from time to time to prevent the spread of pathogens.
Check For Spoilage
Ensure that you always cook with fresh, clean ingredients that are fully prepped before you are ready to cook. Using organic or ethically sourced grains, oil, eggs, meat and farm produce is important, along with checking for expiration dates or change in smell, appearance and texture of your food.
Separation
Keep raw meat away from all your other ingredients and produce in the fridge and store each one correctly so that they remain in good condition. If you have cut vegetables, make sure to store them in air-tight containers and that they do not come in contact with other food groups or ingredients which might lead them to perish or be contaminated.
Cook Properly
Cook your food at the right temperatures as heat kills any unwanted bacteria in your food, making it safe to eat. If a specific vegetable or meat must be cooked through properly before consumption, check for signs in your food to ensure that every ingredient has cooked through correctly. Under-cooking or improper means of cooking your food might lead to digestive issues or food poisoning.
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Just Chill
Make sure to store all your food in the refrigerator at a minimum temperature of 5°C or below and the food in your freezer is stocked at -15°C or below. If you have food leftover, store it in food-safe containers and refrigerate it while still fresh so that it does not spoil while reheating. This also helps prevent the growth of unwanted bacteria in the food.
Storage Is Key
Minimize your food’s exposure to air and other contaminants by storing them in food safe reusable bags or containers. Be mindful of using only clean and sterilised containers which can be sealed tightly to preserve the freshness of food. Use plastic wrap or aluminium foil for more hygiene, if necessary.
