Did you know the CDC estimates that 48 million people, or 1 in 6, get sick from a foodborne illness annually? Moreover, around 128,000 people are hospitalized and 3,000 suffer fatalities. National Food Safety Education Month is observed each September to encourage people to educate themselves about food safety and prevent food poisoning.
Safe Food Handling Steps
Safe food handling significantly reduces risk of foodborne illness. By following a few simple steps, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from these harmful illnesses.
- Wash your hands, kitchen surfaces and cooking utensils prior to preparing and eating food.
- Separate raw meats, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods. Use different cutting boards for produce and raw food.
- Cook your food to the recommended temperature. Using a food thermometer is the best way to ensure safe internal temperatures.
- Chill your food quickly after preparing it. Never thaw food at room temperature and place leftovers in the refrigerator within an hour of cooking.
Food Safety in Commercial Environments
In certain work environments, such as restaurants, schools and food processing facilities, strict adherence to food safety protocols is essential to prevent harm to consumers as well as reputational damage. To mitigate these risks, businesses must establish comprehensive food safety plans, including:
- Employee Training: Ensure all staff are well-versed in safe food handling techniques, including proper handwashing, cross-contamination prevention and temperature control.
- Sanitation and Hygiene: Maintain a clean and sanitized environment, regularly cleaning and disinfecting equipment, utensils and surfaces.
- Temperature Control: Use food thermometers to ensure that food is cooked to the correct internal temperature. Proper refrigeration and freezing are essential for preventing bacterial growth.
- Supplier Verification: Source ingredients from reputable suppliers who adhere to food safety standards. Regularly inspect incoming shipments for quality and freshness.
- Emergency Procedures: Develop and practice emergency response plans for dealing with foodborne illness outbreaks or other safety incidents.
Reach Out to an Advisor
Contact a SISCO Risk Consultant to learn more about how your business can prioritize food safety, maintain a positive reputation and comply with industry requirements.