FOOD HYGIENE AND SAFETY
Meaning of Food Hygiene and Food Safety
- Food Hygiene: The practice of keeping food clean and free from bacteria, dirt, and harmful substances throughout production, preparation, storage, and serving.
- Food Safety: Measures taken to prevent food from causing harm to people when prepared, stored, or eaten.
Importance of Food Hygiene and Safety
- Prevents foodborne illnesses such as diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, and food poisoning.
- Preserves the nutritional value of food.
- Ensures food looks, smells, and tastes good.
- Reduces wastage of food due to spoilage.
- Promotes public confidence in food served at home, schools, and public places.
Personal Hygiene of Food Handlers
Food handlers must maintain good personal hygiene to prevent contamination:
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food.
- Keep nails clean and short.
- Wear clean uniforms, aprons, or protective clothing.
- Cover hair with a cap or hairnet.
- Avoid touching food if sick.
- Avoid wearing jewellery while preparing food.
Hygiene of Food Preparation Areas
- Keep the kitchen clean and free from dust, insects, and rodents.
- Clean work surfaces before and after use.
- Store utensils and equipment in a clean, dry place.
- Dispose of kitchen waste properly and regularly.
- Ensure proper ventilation and lighting in the kitchen.
Safe Handling and Storage of Food
Handling Food
- Always wash fruits and vegetables before use.
- Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables.
- Keep raw and cooked foods separate.
- Use clean utensils and equipment.
- Cook food thoroughly before consumption.
Storage of Food
- Perishable foods (milk, meat, fish) should be refrigerated.
- Non-perishable foods (grains, flour) should be stored in dry, clean, airtight containers.
- Check expiry dates and use older food items first (FIFO – First In, First Out).
- Avoid storing food near chemicals or cleaning agents.
Sources of Food Contamination
- Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli from unclean surfaces or undercooked food.
- Viruses: Hepatitis A from contaminated water or food.
- Fungi/Moulds: Grow on stale or improperly stored food.
- Parasites: From contaminated water or vegetables.
- Physical contaminants: Hair, stones, insects, metal fragments.
- Chemical contaminants: Pesticides, cleaning agents, or food additives.
Food Poisoning
- Occurs when contaminated food is consumed.
- Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever, headache, and fatigue.
- Can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or chemicals.
- Seek medical help if symptoms are severe.
Sensory Signs of Food Spoilage
- Change in colour (e.g., meat turning brown, fruits blackening).
- Unpleasant odour (sour or rotten smell).
- Texture changes (slimy, sticky, or mushy surfaces).
- Visible mould growth (bread, fruits, vegetables).
- Change in taste (sour, bitter, or unusual taste).
Causative Microorganisms:
- Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria.
- Fungi/Moulds: Aspergillus, Penicillium.
- Yeasts: Cause fermentation in sugary foods.
- Viruses: Hepatitis A from contaminated water or food.
Food Safety Practices
- Cook food thoroughly, especially meat, fish, and eggs.
- Keep cooked food hot until served.
- Reheat leftovers thoroughly before consumption.
- Wash hands before and after handling food.
- Avoid eating food left uncovered or for too long at room temperature.
- Use safe water for cooking and cleaning.
- Maintain cleanliness in storage, preparation, and serving areas.
Pest and Rodent Control
- Keep kitchens and food storage areas clean to prevent pests.
- Use covered bins for waste disposal.
- Repair holes and gaps to prevent rodents from entering.
- Use traps or approved pest control methods.
Food Hygiene in Schools and Homes
- Wash hands before eating.
- Keep lunchboxes and storage containers clean.
- Avoid sharing utensils to prevent disease spread.
- Eat freshly prepared food.
Safe Water and Its Importance
- Water used in food preparation must be clean and safe.
- Contaminated water can cause cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea.
- Boil water if unsure about its quality.
- Store drinking water in clean, covered containers.
Careers in Food Hygiene and Safety
- Food inspector
- Nutritionist
- Public health officer
- Caterer or chef
- Food technologist
Practical Tips for Students
- Wash hands frequently and maintain personal hygiene.
- Always clean cooking areas before and after use.
- Store food properly to prevent contamination.
- Avoid tasting food that shows signs of spoilage.
- Report any food poisoning symptoms promptly.
Revision Questions
- Define food hygiene and food safety and explain why they are important.
- List five personal hygiene practices that food handlers must follow.
- Explain two ways to prevent cross-contamination when handling food.
- Name four sources of food contamination and give an example for each.
- Identify three sensory signs of food spoilage and the microorganisms that can cause them.
- List five important food safety practices to follow when preparing, storing, and serving food.