How do we prevent Food Contamination?

Food Contamination occurs in many ways starting from the production to the serving of food. Eating contaminated food might cause symptoms such as dizziness, stomach pain, and diarrhea. We do not want to experience these, but we also do not want to waste the money we spent on food. You might think that it must be a lot of food to waste if you simply throw food the moment you find out that it is contaminated. It could also be a big risk to continue serving food that might cause foodborne illnesses. One solution comes to mind whenever food contamination occurs, but many people are still unsure if it is safe or not.

Does cooking avoid food contamination?

The answer is YES and NO.

There are many factors in considering that contaminated food is safe to eat. Cooking contaminated food kills the bacteria, but only up to a certain extent.

When is it safe?

• Observing proper hygiene while cooking.
  

  You cannot kill the bacteria if you contribute to its dispersal by using unsanitary equipment. Make sure that you clean your hands, your equipment, and utensils before cooking.

• The food is cooked thoroughly.
  

  Cook food at the right temperature (71 degrees Celsius and above).The high temperature kills the bacteria and prevents it from spreading. It is advisable to use a meat thermometer when cooking for accuracy.

• You consume food after cooking.
  

  It only takes 2 hours for bacteria to grow on cooked food when left at room temperature. If cooked food is meant to be kept, you can store it in the refrigerator not less than an hour after cooking. Reheat food before serving.