Food Safety and Consumer Responsibility

Recent reports have indicated that cases linked to the listeriosis outbreak are on the decline since the recall issued in March 2018 (Read the full report here: http://www.nicd.ac.za/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Listeriosis-outbreak-situation-report_22April-2018_fordistribution.pdf). Although the source has been identified and the factors at play under investigation, it remains vital that consumers understand that the responsibility does not stop with the producers and they too have a critical role to play in the prevention of foodborne illnesses.

Below a recap of good food safety practices for the consumer:

1. Adequate handwashing before, during and after food preparation. Hand hygiene is one of the most important aspects of food safety and often the one most neglected.
2. Adequate storage of different food products. This includes storage time, temperatures and types. Familiarise yourself with available storage time and temperature charts, and best storage methods to ensure your food products stay safe for longer;
3. Proper food preparation: Cooking time and temperatures recommended for different products should be adhered to as closely as possible. Cooking food products correctly destroys most bacteria and reduces the chance of becoming ill.
4. Keep up to date with recalls in case you have purchased an affected product. Recalls are conducted for a reason and should be adhered to without hesitation, not only for the safety of consumers but also to provide valuable information that could help with future prevention.
5. When in doubt – throw it out!!

For more information on the above browse through our blog https://www.ecowize.co.za/blog-insights/