ALPENA — September is National Food Safety Education Month, a time to remind us all about the importance of safe food handling. Governor Whitmer highlighted this in a recent proclamation, noting that 1 in 6 Americans get sick from contaminated food each year. That’s about 48 million people, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. These statistics emphasize the need for awareness and proper food safety practices.
Whitmer’s proclamation urges Michiganders to play an active role in food safety. Key steps include washing hands regularly, keeping preparation areas clean, monitoring food temperatures, and discarding outdated food. Awareness is the first step in preventing foodborne illnesses, which can cost the nation billions annually.
The Department of District Health No. 4 (DHD4) has guidelines for anyone who suspects they have a foodborne illness. If symptoms last more than a day or seem severe, it’s important to seek medical help. DHD4 also advises reporting suspected foodborne illness by contacting their Environmental Health Division. Keeping leftovers in the fridge can help in these cases for further investigation.
Common causes of foodborne illness include:
- Not cooking food to the right temperature.
- Failing to cool food properly.
- Food prepared by an ill worker.
- Poor hygiene among food handlers.
- Cross-contamination between food items.
Symptoms often include nausea, fever, and diarrhea, typically lasting a few days. In more severe cases, consulting a healthcare provider is essential. DHD4 is legally obligated to investigate these incidents, ensuring ongoing community health and safety.
Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), emphasized that food safety requires a team effort. He encourages everyone to adopt safe practices in their kitchens. Simple actions like washing hands, using thermometers to check meat temperatures, and refrigerating food promptly can significantly reduce the risk of illness.
Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are rising in importance. Social media trends show an increased focus on food safety, with many sharing their food prep tips and safety practices. Initiatives are also receiving support from restaurants and food service providers eager to inform their customers about best practices.
To learn more about food safety and to download resources, you can visit the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website](https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/) for more tips and guidelines.
Stay safe and enjoy cooking! Cooking at home can be fun and rewarding when we take the right precautions.
— Kayla Wikaryasz, 989-358-5688, kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com
Source link
Local News,September is Food Safety Education monthNews,September is Food Safety Education month
