At a time of year when tables are filled to capacity with holiday feasts and treats, the Middlesex-London Health Unit is offering up a few tips to ensure those delicious meals don't lead to illnesses.
In a news release issued on Friday, the health unit stressed that the importance of safe food handling should not be overlooked.
"Spending time together is part of the holidays, so it’s an ideal time for us to remind them that they need to be careful when they are preparing meals, because viruses and bacteria can spread easily if proper food handling measures and precautions aren't in place,” said David Pavletic, manager of food safety and healthy environments at the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “Looking after the details goes a long way to preventing people from getting sick.”
Those preparing the food only need to remember four basic rules; clean, separate, cook, and chill, according to the health unit.
Hands and food items should be properly washed before food preparation begins. Steps should be taken to prevent cross-contamination of food items, especially raw meat and poultry and a food thermometer should be used to ensure food is cooked to the proper internal temperatures. Finally, any leftovers should then be chilled within two hours of serving.
The health unit also recommends anyone who isn't feeling well should stay out of the kitchen until they have been symptom-free for at least 48 hours.
The tips for safe food handling come as the Public Health Agency of Canada is investigating 40 cases across the country of E. coli illness linked to romaine lettuce.
More information about safe food handling can be found by clicking here.
