Food Safety

Did you know that nearly one in six Americans suffer illnesses directly related to food-borne illnesses, and that three thousand die each year from these types of diseases? According to the CDC ( CDC and Food and Safety, 2009), “reducing food-borne illness by just 10% would keep 5 million Americans from getting sick each year”. According to (What is Food Safety, 2010), food safety is defined as the utilization of various resources and strategies to ensure that all types of foods are properly stored, prepared, and preserved so they are safe for consumption. There are measures you yourself can take to ensure that the food you purchase is safe to eat. It is important to always pay close attention to expiration dates as this can cause many illnesses. Ensure that the foods you are purchasing are stored properly. improperly stored food, such as food that is not kept at the proper temperature when stored, can develop molds, and can spoil resulting in severe food related illnesses and potentially death. Pay attention how different foods are being presented as well. Purchasing the wrong foods can lead to miserable food related illnesses, to avoid these illnesses when purchasing foods be sure to purchase produce that is free from bruising or showing any physical signs of damage. Select produce that is kept cold by ice or refrigeration. This will keep foods fresher longer. Be sure to store your foods properly as-well. Remember to keep your refrigerator set to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Maintaining your foods at the right temperature will not only ensure your meals will be as tasty as desired, but will also help to ensure that you and your family will remain healthy. When presenting your foods be sure they are properly cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the proper internal temperature, this will help make certain that all the bacteria has been properly eliminated from the meat and will ensure the meat will be prepared properly. It is most important to be sure you know how to keep yourself informed on how to properly purchase, store, and present your foods. There are many sources of information on line that will inform you of current recalls on certain products, as well as government websites that offer a wealth of knowledge on the topic of food safety. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services offers information viewable by visiting www.fda.gov. The internet is a great place to research this topic and offers thousands of websites dedicated to the subject as well as thousands of articles posted in newspapers and magazines all across the country. If you do not have access to the internet you can still easily find current information by visiting your local health department. There you will find literature on this subject as well as knowledgeable people who can help guide you along your way to educating your self in order to keep yourself and your family as safe as possible and protected from food born illnesses.

Reference

CDC and Food Safety. (2009). Retrieved February 18, 2012, from http://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/cdc-and-food-safety.html.

“What is Food Safety”. (2010). Retrieved February 18, 2012, from http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-food-safety.htm.