Stay safe from food poisoning this summer with these tips
Summer is in full swing, and as the temperature rises, so does the risk of food poisoning. Why? Well, the warm weather creates the perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites to grow and spread. That's why it's really important to be extra careful during summer. Here are some simple tips to keep yourself safe and sound while enjoying summer delicacies.
Here's what our expert says
Food poisoning is gastrointestinal upset due to ingestion of food-borne toxins or infectious agents. Food poisoning is more commonly seen during summer and monsoon because the food spoils easily in these conditions. Viruses like norovirus and bacteria like Clostridium, Salmonella, and Staphylococci are most commonly implicated. Mild food poisoning is self-limiting and treatable at home with adequate hydration and rest.
Make sure to cook food all the way through
It is really important to handle and cook food properly. Keep raw meat, fish, and seafood away from other food items to prevent any potential contamination. Ensure your food is cooked properly, especially if it is seafood, poultry, or meat, by making sure it's hot in the middle. A useful tip is to insert a knife to check if the juices are oozing out.
Don't waste time! Put groceries in the fridge ASAP
Bring home the groceries and vegetables real quick. During summer, it's important not to make any extra stops after shopping. Leaving food in a hot car can spoil it and make you sick. As soon as you are done shopping, hurry home and put the groceries in the fridge right away. This helps keep your food fresh and safe to eat.
Give raw fruits and veggies a good wash before eating
When you are enjoying salads and raw fruits and vegetables, be careful. These foods can have harmful germs on them. So, before you eat, make sure to rinse everything well under running water. This goes for all fruits and veggies, even if they have tough outer skin. For firmer ones like apples or carrots, you can scrub them gently with a vegetable brush.
Clean hands are super important while cooking
One of the main reasons people get sick from food is because the cook might have prepared it with unclean hands. So, make sure to wash your hands well after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and handling pets. Also, remember to wash your hand well after touching raw meat. Clean hands help keep germs at bay and keep you safe while enjoying your meals.
Stay away from outside food as much as possible
Eating food cooked outside your home increases the chances of contracting food poisoning. So, try to avoid eating food prepared elsewhere as much as possible. Be extra cautious with street vendors, especially if their cooking area seems unclean. These places can be a hotbed for germs and bacteria. And, if you do get sick from food poisoning, these home remedies can offer some relief.
