NPHC Tips for Preparing Food for Holiday Table
As the most wonderful time of the year approaches, specialists from the National Public Health Centre (NPHC) under the Ministry of Health remind everyone about a few simple but crucial rules to ensure your holiday table is not only delicious but also safe.
Practice Good Personal Hygiene
- Always wash your hands before, during, and after cooking, as well as after using the restroom.
- Avoid preparing food for others if you are experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal infections, such as diarrhoea or nausea.
Prevent Cross-Contamination
- Wash fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds thoroughly under running water before use.
- Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables.
- After preparing food, clean kitchen surfaces, utensils, and dishes thoroughly.
Cook Food Properly
Foodborne gastrointestinal infections are caused by microorganisms that can lead to illness and pose risks to your health. Proper heat treatment is essential when cooking:
- Ensure foods are sufficiently boiled or baked, maintaining the right temperature and cooking time to kill bacteria and viruses.
- Dishes made from meat, poultry, eggs, and fish should be heated to at least 70°C for no less than 10 minutes, depending on the size of the item.
- Properly cooked meat or poultry will release clear juices, not pink.
Store Food Safely
- Avoid leaving prepared food at room temperature for an extended period, as this creates a favorable environment for bacterial growth and toxin production.
- Prepared food should not remain at room temperature for more than two hours.
Plan Wisely
- Avoid over-preparing food during the holidays.
- Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within two days.
Recognizing Gastrointestinal Infections
Symptoms of a gastrointestinal infection may appear anywhere from a few hours to a few days after exposure and often include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- General weakness
The first step in managing symptoms is staying hydrated, as dehydration can disrupt organ function. If symptoms are mild, recovery at home is possible within a few days. However, if symptoms worsen, seek medical attention promptly.
To stay healthy and enjoy the holidays, prepare food responsibly. Remember, foodborne illnesses often affect everyone who eats the same contaminated dish.
Wishing you a safe and joyful holiday season!
Last updated: 23-12-2024
Related news:
Fewer Cases: The Number of Municipalities Exceeding the Epidemic Threshold Has Also Decreased
Recommendations for Residents Following a Fire in Klaipėda District
Measles in Europe and Lithuania: Vaccination Helps Control the Spread
Vaccination is the Only Protection Against Poliomyelitis
Workers to Be Monitored Following Bird Flu Outbreak at Poultry Farm in Šilutė District