Food poisoning is a common illness that affects thousands of people in the UK each year. Caused by harmful bacteria, viruses or toxins in contaminated food, it can result in symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and diarrhoea. Fortunately, by following food safety practices, you can reduce your risk.
Always Wash Your Hands
Always wash your hands with soap and warm water before preparing food, after handling raw meat and after using the toilet. Correct hand hygiene can be the most effective way to stop bacteria from spreading.
Store Your Food Properly
Refrigerate all perishable foods like meat, dairy and leftovers below 5°C and ensure your fridge isn’t overcrowded. Keep the raw meat sealed and stored on the bottom shelf to prevent juices dripping on to other foods.
Cook Your Food Thoroughly
Ensure your meat, especially poultry, sausages and burgers, is cooked all the way through. There should be no pink meat, and juices should run clear. Using a food thermometer is ideal, and check that cooked meat reaches at least 75°C in the centre.
Avoid Cross-Contamination
Use separate chopping boards and utensils for raw meat and ready-to-eat foods like salads and bread. Clean your surfaces and equipment with hot soapy water after use.
Cool Leftovers Quickly and Put in the Fridge
Cool your leftovers within two hours and refrigerate. Eat them within two to three days, and reheat thoroughly to steaming hot before eating. To take the hassle out of preparing lunch, you can enjoy a delicious treat at your desk. Tasty office lunches can be delivered at a time that suits, and companies such as https://www.crumbsdelivered.co.uk/shop/office-lunch-delivery/ can take your order.
Be Cautious with Riskier Foods
Some foods are more often responsible, including chicken and shellfish. They are especially dangerous for vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.
Check the Use-by Dates
Never eat food past its use-by date, even if it looks and smells fine. These dates are about safety, not quality. Best-before dates, however, refer to taste and texture, not health risks.
