Food Poisoning: 7 Ways You Can Prevent It When Storing Your Food

[PressRoom]

Food poisoning, also known as food borne illness, can also be caused when you don't store your foods properly. Below is a look at some safety measures.



1. Store foods according to their needs: The type of storage is dependent on the type of food. Dry foods such as pasta, rice, lentils, beans, canned foods and cereals can all be kept in a cool, dry place such as a pantry or cupboards. Other foods can be trickier and care should be taken to store them in the appropriate manner.

2. Freeze or refrigerate as necessary: Place frozen items in the freezer within 2 hours of removing them from the freezer (though ideally this should be done sooner—put them away as soon as you get home).

• Meat, poultry, eggs, fish, pre-prepared meals, dairy products and leftovers should always be refrigerated.
  
  
• Many foods should be kept refrigerated or in a cool, dark place, such as a cellar or pantry, once opened. Read labels for storage details and instructions. If in any doubt, always err on the side of providing a cooler environment.

3. Never store food in an open container: Food -- particularly raw meats and leftovers should never be stored in open container.

• Tightly cover all foods with cling wrap or tin foil, place in a container with an airtight lid, or store in a sealable plastic bag.
  
  
• Never store food in opened tin cans, as this forms a breeding ground for bacteria. Transfer things like tomato paste and sweetcorn to a plastic container instead.

4. Pay Attention to use-by Dates: All foods, regardless of their storage status, should be eaten quickly and within their use-by dates.

• Even spices and dried herbs lose their beneficial properties and flavors if kept too long and many items can become harmful if stored beyond their use-by date.
• Never eat foods from dented or bulging tins or from packaging with a broken seal, even if the food is within its use-by date.

5. Keep Foods Separated: At all times, keep raw meat, raw eggs and poultry away from cooked food, fresh fruits, and vegetables.

• Store raw meat covered, on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator. This will prevent it from touching or dripping onto other foods.

6. Protect Your Food from Insects and Animals: Food can easily become contaminated if it easily accessible to pets and pests.

• Proper food storage -- keeping food in sealed containers in a closed fridge, freezer or cupboard -- will help to keep insects and animals away.
• However, food is more susceptible to contamination by four-legged beasts during preparation and serving. Don't leave food unattended during the preparation process and keep completed dishes covered with lids or cling wrap until they are ready to be served

7. Be Extra Careful During Warmer Weather: Food contamination from bacteria occurs much faster in warmer weather. If you are eating outdoors, ensure that everyone eats the food quickly and that leftovers are brought back inside within an hour to be stored in the cool again.

READ: Food Poisoning: 9 Ways You Can Prevent It When Preparing Your Meal