Tips to prevent food-borne illness

Food-borne illness can sneak up in many ways.

According to CDC (Center for Disease Control), an estimated 48 million cases of food-borne disease occur each year in the United States. Although most of these cases are mild, some cases are more serious and could lead to death.

The City of Dallas Code Compliance has tips for citizens to protect families from food-borne illnesses.

Proper hand-washing – This is one of the easiest ways to prevent food-borne illness. Always wash your hands before handling raw meat and after using the restroom. Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Afterwards, dry with a disposable towel. Washing your hands often will keep your family safe and healthy.

Keep bacteria at bay by keeping raw meat away – Preventing cross contamination in your kitchen is simple. Be sure to store raw meat below vegetables and separately from cooked foods in the fridge. Use different cutting boards to prepare raw meats and always wash your hands after handling raw meats.

After dinner is done, cool your food – Bacteria that can make you sick grow quickly at room temperature. Leftovers should be promptly stored in the refrigerator. Eating food left out overnight is an easy way to feel queasy and a quick way to be sick the next day.

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