Keep food safe for the season

In this season of family get-togethers, communal eating is very common. There arises, therefore, many opportunities for the eating of unsafe foods. Sometimes we buy unsafe, prepared foods, and other times, it becomes unsafe before, during, or after preparation, causing those who consume it to get sick and even die.

The first part of ensuring that the food that we are preparing is safe is to make sure the raw materials are healthy. If possible, inspect the area where they are packaged and/or ensure that it has been passed by the appropriate authorities. Stick to reputable outlets. Ensure that it is stored in way that limits the possibility of contamination. Be alert for unusual odours. Check tins for dents, leakage, and bulging. Check for signs of staleness and prolonged storage. Inspect all foods thoroughly before purchasing.

After the raw materials have been bought, they must be kept safely. Meats must be frozen or prepared quickly. They should be bought last and kept away from other foods, especially if those foods will not be cooked. Large pieces should be cut up before being frozen, and you should ensure the freezer is working properly. Wash vegetables and ground provisions properly to remove insects, chemicals, and dirt, even before storage.

When you are about to prepare food, ensure that everything used in its preparation is clean. Hands should be washed and kept clean. It is best to use a plastic cutting board that has been washed with bleach. You need to ensure that no cross-contamination of food occurs during the preparation stage, so be careful in the handling of foods and utensils. Thaw meats in the cool section of the refrigerator, using a microwave, or quickly in tap water. Do not keep outside of refrigerator for more than two hours. Remove bruised and battered areas of fruits and vegetables. Ensure that foods are cooked properly.

WATCH TEMPERATURE

After preparation, do not return to the containers they were in when they were raw. Keep hot food hot and cold foods cold. Keep prepared foods covered. They should not be kept at room temperature for hours and should be consumed shortly after serving. Be careful of leftovers. The same rules apply for them, and consume them early.

If you are doubtful about the food quality, then it is best to avoid it. It is better than getting sick as we want you all to enjoy the holidays and keep well for the New Year.

Dr Douglas Street is a general practitioner and has private practices at Trinity Medical Centre, Trinity Mall at 3 Barnett Street in Montego Bay, and Omega Medical Centre at Plaza de Negril, Negril. Send feedback to drdougstreet@yahoo.com.