FOOD SAFETY
Meaning of Food Safety
Food safety is the practice of handling, preparing, and storing food in ways that prevent contamination, spoilage, and foodborne illnesses.
- Ensures food is safe to eat and free from harmful bacteria, viruses, chemicals, or foreign objects.
- Involves personal hygiene, proper storage, and careful preparation.
Importance of Food Safety
- Prevents foodborne diseases – protects the family from illnesses like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid.
- Maintains nutritional value – safe handling preserves vitamins and minerals.
- Reduces food wastage – properly stored and handled food lasts longer.
- Protects vulnerable groups – children, pregnant women, and the elderly are less likely to get sick.
- Promotes general health – reduces risk of infections and chronic illnesses.
Perishable and Non-Perishable Foods
Perishable Foods
- Foods that spoil quickly if not stored properly.
- Usually high in moisture and require refrigeration.
- Examples: meat, fish, milk, eggs, fruits, and vegetables.
Non-Perishable Foods
- Foods that last longer and can be stored at room temperature.
- Examples: rice, beans, garri, sugar, salt, flour, and canned foods.
Importance in Food Safety:
- Knowing which foods are perishable or non-perishable helps in proper storage and handling.
How to Keep Food Safe
To prevent contamination and spoilage, follow these food safety practices:
- Cleanliness – wash hands, utensils, and surfaces regularly.
- Separate raw and cooked foods – prevent cross-contamination.
- Proper cooking – cook food thoroughly to kill harmful microorganisms.
- Safe storage – refrigerate perishable items and use airtight containers.
- Use clean water and fresh ingredients – avoid contaminated sources.
- Check expiry dates – do not consume expired packaged foods.
- Proper disposal of spoiled foods – throw away rotten or contaminated food immediately.
- Control pests – keep kitchens free from flies, rodents, and insects.
Consequences of Poor Food Safety
- Food poisoning and infections.
- Malnutrition due to spoiled food losing nutrients.
- Loss of money from wasted food.
- Hospitalization or death in severe cases.
Revision Questions
- Define food safety and explain why it is important for families.
- List three examples each of perishable and non-perishable foods.
- Explain four ways to keep food safe in the home.
- Identify three causes of food contamination and explain how they can be prevented.
- State three consequences of poor food safety.
- A family wants to store perishable foods for a week. Suggest suitable methods to keep the food safe and explain why they are effective.
