How To Prevent Foodborne Illnesses

Cook To Proper Temperature

It is easy to be in a hurry while cooking. However, it is important not to rush the process and cook to proper temperature because, often, many foods require a certain internal temperature before they are safe to consume. For example, meat and eggs need to be cooked at a required temperature for harmful bacteria such as E. coli and listeria to be effectively eliminated. Other foods can also be dangerous when under-cooked, such as beans. Under-cooked and raw beans contain lectin, which can be toxic if consumed. Therefore, when cooking, it is vital to research the minimum temperature requirements for foods to avoid making yourself and others sick.

Refrigerate And Freeze Promptly

How food is stored after it is cooked is also important. If food is left sitting out, harmful bacteria can begin to grow, which will make the food dangerous if consumed. This is why it is vital to refrigerate and freeze food promptly. Typically, it is recommended to only leave food out for two hours before refrigerating it. Also, leftovers should only be left in the refrigerator for three to four days. After this time, they start to go bad and can become dangerous to consume. If you need to preserve food for longer, freeze it. Food will typically last longer in the freezer, but it is important to research the specific items you are freezing and how long they can last frozen.