Ensuring food safety and preventing foodborne illnesses mainly depend on maintaining high standards of food hygiene. However, even after completing Food Hygiene and Safety Training, many people tend to forget the basic principles of food safety in their everyday cooking routines. Whether you are managing a professional kitchen or cooking at home, staying away from these common mistakes can help maintain a healthier and safer food environment.
1. Not Practicing Proper Hand Hygiene
Washing hands thoroughly is one of the simplest yet most overlooked steps in food safety. People often think a quick rinse is enough, but proper handwashing involves scrubbing with soap for at least 20 seconds. This practice is essential before cooking and after handling raw foods like meat, poultry, or seafood to prevent the spread of harmful pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli.
To avoid this mistake, make sure to wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds, especially after touching raw meat or using the toilet. Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dryer, as damp hands can also spread germs.
2. Cross Contamination Between Raw and Cooked Food
Cross contamination happens when bacteria from raw foods spread to cooked or ready-to-eat items, often due to using the same tools or cutting boards without cleaning them.
To avoid this mistake, use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other foods. Clean and disinfect surfaces, knives, and utensils after handling raw items.
3. Ignoring Expiry Dates
It’s easy to overlook expiry dates, but eating food past its expiration can pose serious health risks.
To avoid this mistake, always check expiry dates before using any products. Rotate items in your fridge and pantry so that older products are used first.
4. Incorrect Food Storage Temperatures
Storing food at the wrong temperature can lead to bacterial growth. Food should be refrigerated promptly and kept below 5°C to prevent bacteria from thriving.
To avoid this mistake, ensure your fridge is set to below 5°C and refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking.
5. Thawing Food at Room Temperature
Leaving frozen food out at room temperature can encourage bacterial growth. The outer part warms up while the inside remains frozen, creating a favorable environment for bacteria.
To avoid this mistake, thaw food in the fridge, under cold water, or in the microwave instead of the counter. Avoid leaving perishable foods out for over two hours.
6. Neglecting Personal Hygiene
The personal hygiene of the food handler is just as critical. Germs can be introduced through poor personal habits, like handling food when sick or wearing unwashed clothing.
To avoid this mistake, always wear clean clothing and tie back long hair while cooking. Don’t handle food if you’re feeling unwell.
7. Cooking Food at Incorrect Temperatures
Cooking foods to the proper temperature is crucial to kill bacteria. Rushing can lead to undercooked meals, which can cause illnesses.
To avoid this mistake, use a food thermometer to ensure your food reaches the correct temperature, checking the thickest part of meats.
8. Using the Same Utensils Without Cleaning
Using the same utensils for raw and cooked food can cause cross contamination, especially when multitasking in the kitchen.
To avoid this mistake, use different utensils for raw and cooked foods. Always clean cutting boards, utensils, and surfaces right after use.
9. Not Washing Fruits and Vegetables Properly
Fruits and vegetables may appear clean but can carry harmful bacteria or pesticides. Skipping a thorough wash can increase foodborne illness risk.
To avoid this mistake, wash fruits and veggies under running water before eating. Use a clean brush to scrub firm produce like cucumbers or melons.
10. Neglecting to Clean Kitchen Surfaces Regularly
Worktops and cutting boards can harbor bacteria from raw foods. Neglecting to clean them can contaminate the next items prepared on them.
To avoid this mistake, clean and disinfect all surfaces after food preparation, especially after handling raw meat. Use kitchen disinfectant or hot soapy water.
Conclusion
Food safety is about more than just avoiding illness; it’s about protecting the health of everyone. By keeping these common mistakes in mind and actively working to avoid them, you can create a safe and nutritious cooking environment. Remember these top 10 tips, and you’ll be on your way to mastering safe cooking techniques!
