How to Avoid Food Borne Illness

Food borne illness can cause severe illness, and in some cases can even be fatal. Food borne illness is something that can be prevented with safe food handling practices.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Always wash your hands in order to prevent the spread of food borne illnesses. Proper hygiene is essential in avoiding spreading bacteria to food. Use soap, hot water, and wash for at least 20 seconds.

2. Don't work around food when you're sick. Food borne illnesses are often spread by sick people who don't want to miss a day of work.

3. Food borne illnesses are also caused by cross contamination. Cooking utensils, bowls, and even hands and gloves can spread bacteria from uncooked meats to vegetables or other foods, where they will make people very ill. Avoid cross contamination in order to prevent food borne illnesses.

4. Be aware of potentially dangerous foods such as meats, cheese, diary, and other perishable edibles. Always use the proper temperatures in order to prevent dangerous food borne illness. Keep hot foods hot (at least 160 degrees) and cold foods cold (41 degrees or lower) to prevent the spread of food borne illnesses!

Resources

• How to Get a Food Handler's Permit