Food contamination is becoming a serious issue. A recent report shows that cases are increasing and getting worse. In 2024, many illnesses and food recalls were tied to harmful bacteria like salmonella, listeria, and E. coli. Sadly, 19 people died from severe infections last year, which is twice as many as in 2023.
To keep our food safe, it’s important to handle fresh produce, raw seafood, red meat, and poultry properly. Here are some tips to avoid contamination:
- When shopping, choose produce that looks fresh and undamaged.
- Keep fruits and vegetables separate from raw meat in your cart and bags.
- Refrigerate produce within two hours of getting home.
Before eating, it’s crucial to wash fruits and vegetables under cold water. For a deeper clean, you can use diluted vinegar to help remove bacteria and pesticides.
Using different cutting boards for produce and raw meat is essential. Always cook seafood, poultry, and meat to the right temperature to kill any harmful germs. This is the best way to ensure your food is safe to eat.
Pesticides can also be a problem. Some fruits and vegetables may have higher pesticide levels, especially if they aren’t grown organically. The Environmental Working Group releases a list called “The Dirty Dozen,” highlighting produce that tests high for these chemicals. They even have an app to help you make informed choices while shopping.
By following these simple guidelines, you can protect yourself and your family from foodborne illnesses.
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