Food contamination is the formation of bacteria or toxins on food that can make you sick. The transfer of germs from one food to another or from people and animals to the foods you eat can encourage the rapid growth of bacteria that leads to foodborne illnesses, commonly referred to as food poisoning. Learn proper food-handling techniques to help prevent food contamination in your home and on the road.
Step 1
Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and antibacterial soap before you touch any type of food to avoid the transfer of bacteria. The National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds before handling food, as well as after using the bathroom or coming into contact with household pets and other animals.
Step 2
Scrub produce under running water with a vegetable brush to remove dirt, pesticides and other possible toxins from the skin. Pat dry with a paper towel before slicing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that bacteria and mold can grow on the surface of cut produce, so be sure your knife is clean as well.
Step 3
Prevent food contamination by cleaning cutting boards, knives and other kitchen tools and counter surfaces after each use. Wash items in hot, soapy water when possible, and wipe down surfaces with sanitizing wipes to remove raw meat drippings and residue that can contaminate other food items.
Step 4
Cook meat, chicken and fish until the internal temperature reaches at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the CDC. Foods that are meant to be cooked and are not brought to safe temperatures may still harbor bacteria that can make you sick. Check the progress of your meal by inserting a food thermometer into the thickest part of the meat.
Step 5
Store leftovers properly to avoid contamination. Seal foods in airtight containers and refrigerate it within two hours of its preparation. The Florida Department of Health says that Staphylococcus bacteria can form on foods, reproduce and create a toxin that causes food poisoning, but refrigerating items promptly can halt this process. Dishes that contain mayonnaise are more likely to develop bacteria than some other kinds of foods.
Step 6
Keep yourself safe from foodborne illness when you're on the road. Store picnic foods in an ice-packed cooler if refrigeration is not possible--the sun's heat can accelerate the growth of bacteria.
Things You'll Need
- Antibacterial soap
- Vegetable brush
- Paper towels
- Sanitizing wipes
- Food thermometer
- Airtight containers
- Refrigerator
- Ice packs
- Cooler
