How to Maintain Proper Food Hygiene and Keep the Whole Family Safe

We have all heard of deadly diseases that are spread through cross contamination of food, poor personal hygiene and unhygienic methods of handling food products. Salmonella and MRSA are just two diseases that have affected humans, and have proved deadly. Proper food hygiene can help to protect families from contracting these deadly diseases. It all starts in the home.

How to maintain proper food hygiene and keep the whole family safe #1 Wash your hands whenever you handle food

This seems to be such a simple, basis reminder. But it is the most effective in combating bacterial growth in the kitchen. Hands need to be washed after using the toilet, before food preparation, after coughing or sneezing and during the preparation of food. It may seem excessive to wash your hands five times or more while preparing just one meal, but this is just what it will take to keep hands clean and free of any dirt and bacteria that can easily spread from the body, to the hands and then onto food.

How to maintain proper food hygiene and keep the whole family safe #2 Work in a clean, uncluttered work area

Wipe down work surfaces that you will be using with a clean cloth or sponge. Remove food debris from a previous meal and then start work on the next meal. Make sure that the area you will be working in is also uncluttered and tidy. Have all the equipment you will need to hand and ensure that it is clean before you use it.

How to maintain proper food hygiene and keep the whole family safe #3 Tie long hair back

Girls and women with long hair should make it a regular practice to tie back their long hair. Hair can easily fall into food during food preparation if it is hanging loose.

How to maintain proper food hygiene and keep the whole family safe #4 Remove jewellery

Jewellery may look clean and sparkly, but think of all the bacteria it harbours if you never take off rings, bracelets and watches. It is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, which can then contaminate food. Before cooking, remove jewellery and then wash your hands. It also makes cooking easier without the obstruction of diamond rings or bracelets getting in the way.