With it starting to look a lot like Christmas everywhere you go, even in the grocery stores and super markets food plays an important role... especially during the holiday season.
And, when it comes to food safety, we all play a role in helping to reduce the risk of food borne illness. So make sure you are spreading holiday cheer and not food poisoning.
Millions Suffer from Food Poisoning Every Year
Health Canada estimates every year approximately two million Canadians suffer from illnesses caused by food borne bacteria and about 30 of them die.
Food is served at most parties. From buffets, to formal feasts, or extravagant catering, all are filled with a multitude of food choices from exotic to the traditional.
That said, many people love finger foods and buffets because it allows them to choose their foods and take as much or as little as they want. But one thing is for sure, what they don't want is to acquire a food borne illness.
What many people may not realize when some foods are left out for two hours or more they can harbour bacteria that can spread food poisoning.
So if you are planning a holiday party that includes serving food, be sure to follow these four simple food safety tips:
Keep it clean, cold or hot, cook food thoroughly, and separate foods so you don't cross-contaminate.
Following these four simple steps can help to eliminate harmful bacteria when preparing, serving, and storing food.
Follow Four Simple Food Safety Tips
The age-old expression - "Cleanliness is next to Godliness" should be applied when it comes to food preparation. Clean hands, all utensils and cooking surfaces frequently during preparation. All produce should be washed prior to cooking and eating. Use a mild bleach and water solution to sanitize cutting boards.
Also remember to Separate foods. Don't cross-contaminate by allowing foods and their juices to come into contact with one another during preparation. Use a separate cutting board for raw meats and vegetables.
Third, make sure to cook foods thoroughly and serve immediately.
And last but not least, remember to chill the food that requires refrigeration. Follow the 'two-hour rule' by freezing or refrigerating perishables and leftovers within two hours.
When serving up a buffet or canapés -- Don't leave food out on the table longer than two hours. Putting out smaller portions and replacing food often on clean platters or dishes will protect your food from harmful bacteria.
These food safety tips will help keep you, family and friends healthy and reduce the risk of food borne illness.
For more information on food safety tips check out Canada FightBAC web site.
Be safe, have fun and enjoy life to the fullest.
