BfR Issues Crucial Food Safety Guidelines to Prevent 128,000 US Hospitalizations Annually
The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) in Germany has issued crucial guidelines to prevent food poisoning. Undercooked meat and chicken can harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, making proper heat treatment vital. Meanwhile, in the US, around 128,000 people are hospitalized and 3,000 die annually due to food poisoning.
The BfR advises keeping food above 60°C until served to kill bacteria. Leftover food should be refrigerated within two hours to hinder bacterial growth. To prevent cross-contamination, use separate cutting boards for different products, store raw poultry or meat separately, and clean utensils thoroughly with hot soapy water.
In the kitchen, a homemade drain unclogger can be made by dissolving grated soap in hot water, followed by rinsing with hot water. Thorough hand washing with soap before and after handling food, after using the toilet, and before eating is also crucial to prevent gastrointestinal infections.
Following these guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of food poisoning. Proper food handling, storage, and hygiene practices can help prevent the annual toll of 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths in the US due to contaminated food.
