Summer is the season of family time, picnics and trips to the beach. But did you know that some of your favorite seasonal foods can also be the leading causes of food poisoning?
Foods that can cause poisoning:
chickens
Although a favorite food, chicken is known to harbor bacteria such as salmonella and campylobacter. If not cooked properly, chicken can turn from a delicious meal into a food poisoning nightmare. Make sure the chicken is thoroughly cooked to eliminate any harmful bacteria.
Vegetables washed well
Salads are healthy summer foods, but leafy greens like lettuce, spinach and kale can be contaminated with salmonella and listeria. Always wash your vegetables thoroughly and consider choosing organic to reduce the risk of poisoning.
Seafood
Summer is perfect for a lunch or dinner full of seafood, but raw or unsanitary seafood can be dangerous. Make sure seafood is properly cooked and choose carefully.
egg
Whether in a breakfast meal, salad, or in a homemade ice cream recipe - eggs can be a source of salmonella. Use pasteurized eggs for recipes that call for raw or soft-boiled eggs and store the eggs in the refrigerator.
Why are these foods dangerous in summer?
High temperatures create the perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply rapidly. When food is left out in the sun or not stored at the right temperature, the risk of contamination increases.
How to stay safe?
Maintain good hygiene
Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling food. Clean all surfaces and utensils used during food preparation.
Cook the food completely
Use a food thermometer to make sure meat and seafood are cooked to the correct temperature.
Keep foods fresh
Beware of foods that spoil within two hours (store them in the refrigerator at the right temperature). During outdoor activities, store food and drinks in a thermos.
Wash fruits and vegetables
Rinse all produce in running water with baking soda before cooking.
Take care of your health!
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