Steps to prevent food poisoning

By

The Ministry of Health

File photo shows a sales attendant arranging products at a grocery store. AFP

When cooking meat and poultry, make sure it is well-cooked and not pink.





Do not store food too long in the refrigerator.

Good hygiene practices can contribute towards preventing food poisoning. Everyone must take part in ensuring food safety by following simple safety practices:

1. Grocery Shopping

Food safety begins when you do your shopping. This will help in reducing the risk of food poisoning.
Do:
- Buy food from a clean and reputable shop.
- Read labels carefully.
- Select fresh and wholesome foods.
Don't:
- Do not buy chilled or frozen food that is displayed at room temperature.
- Do not choose dented, bolted, blown or rusty canned food.
- Do not buy food beyond its expiry date.

2. Wash & Keep Clean

Bacteria can be found everywhere. These bacteria are carried on our hands, wiping cloths and utensils. The slightest contact can transfer them to food.
Do:
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling and preparing food and after using the toilet.
- Wash and sanitise all surface and equipment used for food preparation.
- Wash dish clothes and towels frequently or use disposable towels.
- Keep your kitchen clean and protect from insects, pets and other animals.

3. Separate Raw And Cooked Food

Raw food may contain harmful bacteria.
They may be transferred onto other foods during preparation and storage which may cause food poisoning.
Do:
- Keep raw food separately from cooked foods.
- Wash knives and chopping boards between uses.
- Use separate chopping boards for raw and cooked food.
- Store food in covered containers to prevent cross contamination between raw and cooked foods.

4. Cook Your Food Well

Proper cooking will help to kill all harmful bacteria.
Do:
- When cooking meat and poultry, make sure it is well-cooked and not pink.
- Cook them at higher temperature.
- If food requires reheating, cook it thoroughly.

5. Keep Food At Safer Temperatures

Bacteria can multiply very quickly at room temperaure. Food must be kept under the right conditions so that it is safe to eat.
Do:
- Hot food should be served hot, cold food should be served cold.
- Keep cooked food piping hot prior to serving.
- Refrigerate promptly all cooked and perishable food.
Don't:
- Do not leave cooked food at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Do not store food too long even in the refrigerator.
- Do not thaw frozen food at room temperature. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or use the microwave oven.
- Do not leave marinated food at room temperature. Keep them in a covered bowl in the refrigerator.

Ministry of Health Public Awareness Programme

Source: Weekend , Dec 6, 2008