5 Ways to Ensure Your Food is Safe from Pests
Many of us don’t think about pests when it comes to eating. We assume that we can grab some food, take a few bites and then move on – without ever considering the danger lurking in our kitchens and dining areas. Unfortunately, the reality is that keeping your food safe from infestation by insects or other pests should not be overlooked. Without proper measures, you may unwittingly consume large quantities of larvae or eggs from insect species such as fly maggots, moths, and ants. Don’t let this happen to you! Read on to discover five ways you can ensure your food stays safe.
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Clean Your Kitchen Counters and Appliances Before Preparing Food
Cleanliness is essential when it comes to preparing food safely. Bacteria can be transferred from surfaces to your hands and food, making you and your family sick. Therefore, cleaning the kitchen counters and all appliances, like blenders, food processors, mixing bowls, etc., is essential before preparations begin.
To be safe, wipe the surfaces with an antibacterial spray or mix one teaspoon of bleach in a cup of water with a few drops of dish soap for an effective cleaner. Cleaning correctly is also essential if you use raw meat, as there is a chance of bacterial cross-contamination. These steps will help create delicious meals and ensure they are enjoyable and safe!
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Wash Your Hands Thoroughly with Soap and Water Before and After Cooking
The importance of washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after cooking cannot be understated. It is the single most effective action to kill germs and bacteria that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Properly washing your hands reduces the risk of unknowingly transferring these dangerous pathogens from your hands to the food you are preparing and serving.
Regular handwashing is essential while handling raw meats as they may contain a large amount of contaminants that must be avoided or neutralized when cooking. Taking just a few extra seconds between cleaning tasks can be the difference between a safe meal and an unsafe one — it’s worth it!
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Use a Food Thermometer
For any meal that includes meat, it’s essential to ensure it is cooked to the correct temperature to prevent food poisoning. Whether you are grilling a steak, roasting a chicken, or boiling hamburger patties, knowing the exact temperature of the meat is important when deciding when it is fully cooked and safe to eat. A thermometer should always be used to ensure your food is safe.
Additionally, purchasing a digital thermometer with a digital display will ensure accuracy and that each measurement reflects a reliable reading. With fast results, precision readings, and convenience, any home chef can benefit from various features of using a food thermometer.
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Get Pest Control Services
Pest control services are an essential component of ensuring safe food. These services can help locate and eliminate potential pest infestations, such as mice, rats and insects, that could contaminate food sources or cause diseases. In addition, pest control professionals are trained to use the most effective methods to reduce the risk of unwanted pests entering the premises. They also profoundly understand how pest behaviour patterns, such as breeding cycles, affect their presence in space. By engaging pest control services, you can rest assured that your food is safe from pest-related health risks.
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Refrigerate Leftovers Within Two Hours of Cooking
Refrigerating and freezing leftovers is crucial in keeping food safe for consumption. Hot foods can quickly become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria, so it’s important to cool them down as soon as possible.
Refrigerating and freezing leftovers within two hours of cooking prevents bacteria from growing and reduces the chances of foodborne illness. Not only should you refrigerate or freeze leftovers shortly after cooking, but if cooked dishes are left out on the counter for more than two hours, it’s best to discard them rather than take chances with your health.
Taking the time to follow these simple precautions will help ensure tasty, safe meals for everyone.
Final Words
We hope this article has given you some tips on ensuring your food is safe. If not, contact us, and we’ll be happy to help you. After all, nobody wants to get sick from eating bad food. So make sure to follow these guidelines and enjoy your next meal!
Waheed Ahmed Founder & CEO, Pesticon Pest Control
Holding a Masters Degree in Agriculture, Waheed fulfilled his vision of helping people with their pest control problems in the Greater Vancouver area. Due to his passion for people, he ensures the best customer service available in the industry. For over 20 years, Waheed continues to help rid homes and business of pests.