7 Shocking Facts About Food Safety You NEED to Know!

CONTENTS: 7 Shocking Facts About Food Safety You NEED to Know!

You might be familiar with the saying, “Jaisa ho anna, vaisa rahe man,” which means that our food has a direct impact on our body and mind.

Over the past two decades, our eating habits have changed significantly. There’s been a rapid rise in the consumption of fast food, packaged food, and junk food. Many people use refrigerators to store food for extended periods. Additionally, fertilizers and pesticides are extensively used to boost the production of fruits, vegetables, and crops. Given these circumstances, selecting healthy and safe food has become a substantial challenge.

In this context, the World Health Organization (WHO) observes World Food Safety Day on June 7th each year. The goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of contaminated food.

Why is Food Safety Important?

7 Shocking Facts About Food Safety You NEED to Know!

Food is a fundamental necessity for our bodies, essential for sustaining life and maintaining health. This issue is directly related to our physical and mental development. Safe food is crucial because it nourishes us and protects us from diseases.

To understand the importance of food safety, consider the facts and figures provided by the WHO in the graphic below.

How Does Food Get Contaminated?

Food can become contaminated at various stages, from its growth or production, through storage, cooking, and preparation, to packaging.

The shelf life of food items is generally limited. Fruits, vegetables, and cooked foods cannot be stored for extended periods without spoiling. When not properly protected, food can spoil, leading to the growth of bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

There are several reasons for food contamination, including the use of toxic chemicals and medications during production or the addition of preservatives to extend shelf life during packaging. Additionally, bacteria and viruses can proliferate in food due to several factors, such as:

– Not washing hands before cooking
– Improperly cleaned chopping boards and cooking utensils
– Leaving food exposed for extended periods
– Lack of cleanliness in the kitchen
– Handling food by someone with an infectious disease

What Kind of Diseases Can Be Caused by Eating Contaminated Food?

Consuming contaminated food can lead to a variety of diseases and infections. As highlighted in the graphic above, the World Health Organization states that contaminated food can cause up to 200 different types of infections and diseases.

Who is More at Risk from Diseases Caused by Contaminated Food?

While foodborne illnesses can affect individuals of any age, certain groups are at higher risk. These include elderly people over 65, children under 5, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The primary reason is that their immune systems tend to be weaker.

How Can One Avoid Diseases Caused by Contaminated Food?

Maintaining cleanliness is crucial to prevent diseases caused by contaminated food. When consuming street food, fast food, or junk food from the market, always ensure that the place where the food is prepared adheres to cleanliness standards. Additionally, verify that the food served is fresh, as the risk of bacteria and germs is significantly higher in dirty and stale food.

Special precautions should also be taken when purchasing meat, poultry, eggs, fish, and raw fruits and vegetables.

Refer to the graphic below for more details.

At What Level Are Efforts Required Regarding Food Safety?

Ensuring safe food for all citizens is not the responsibility of any single individual. It requires collective effort and responsible participation from everyone, ranging from the government to ordinary citizens. The World Health Organization recommends five key steps for achieving this. Refer to the graphic below for details. Additionally, we should implement measures at home to ensure food safety.

How Long Does Food Kept in the Fridge Remain Safe?

Each type of food has its own shelf life. If items like dal, roti, or rice are not properly covered in the fridge, bacteria can develop, leading to food poisoning or other health issues.

– Cooked Rice: Should be consumed within two days. Eating rice stored longer can lead to indigestion and stomach ache.
– Roti: There is a risk of fungal contamination. It is best to eat rotis stored in the fridge within 7-8 hours.
– Dal: Should not be consumed if stored in the fridge for more than a day, as it can cause stomach ache, indigestion, and acidity.

When Should Fruits and Vegetables Be Washed?

Fertilizers and pesticides used on fruits and vegetables pose health risks. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, it is essential to wash fruits and vegetables at several stages before cutting, eating, or cooking them.

First, do not store vegetables in the fridge without washing them after buying them from the market. However, even after refrigeration, it is crucial to wash vegetables thoroughly again before cooking or eating them, as germs can still develop during storage.

What Things Should Be Kept in Mind While Washing Fruits and Vegetables?

Begin by selecting fresh fruits and vegetables, ensuring they are free from scratches or fungus. Follow these steps:

– Wash your hands thoroughly with water and soap for at least 20 seconds before handling any food in the kitchen.
– Use only clean water to rinse fruits and vegetables.
– For solid items like apples or potatoes, use a bristle brush and gently scrub them under running water to remove dirt effectively.
– Wash leafy vegetables in multiple stages to ensure cleanliness.
– For delicate items like berries or mushrooms, place them under tap water and clean them gently.