Right food storage temperature key in preventing poisoning

Описание: Apply safe food storage practices, experts warn, because leaving some foods under mere room temperature can start food spoilage, or even lead to food poisoning and other severe diseases.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), most types of food including meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy must be refrigerated. In fact, the FDA suggests a "two-hour rule." This "rule" recommends that food should not be left to sit under room temperature for more than two hours. Ideal temperature of refrigerators must be at around or below 40° F (4° C).

Some food however, need a cooler environment. Among these are ice cream and frozen yogurt. These food are preferably kept in the freezer, at or below 0° F (-18° C),

The reason behind cool storage is because most bacteria multiply slower or are inactive when it is cold. Experts however said bacteria are merely "disabled" but are not killed. Once taken out of the freezer or the refrigerator, bacteria can once again multiply.

Other food however do not require refrigeration. Canned goods which undergo a sterilization process, uncooked rice, and cereals belong to the category known as "dry food". Some fruits and vegetables including bananas, onions and potatoes also fall under this type.

Experts reiterate the need for food safety because Filipinos will once again be gracing several reunions and gatherings this Christmas season.

Potluck parties are very popular during the holidays, where every person brings a dish to be shared by the group. Experts however said the public must be cautious of food served in potluck parties as some food may have been improperly handled.

According to microbiologist Dr. Windell Rivera, "Iba ibang tao yung nagpreprepare ng pagkain, hindi natin alam kung paano nila hinandle yung food prepration. Because of that ito yung possibility na mataas magkaroon ng outbreak. (Different people prepare the food hence there is a higher possibility that a contaminated food served during a gathering can cause an outbreak).

Experts said one prominent bacteria type that can inhabit party food is Staphylococcus aureus. It is a common type of bacteria usually found in the nose and the surface of the skin. While mostly harmless outside of the body, the bacteria can be hazardous when it or toxins it produces enters the body through cuts and wounds, or ingestion.

Unrefrigerated food, milk products, and other improperly handled meals are food types prone to contamination by the toxins it produces. Ingesting food contaminated by toxins can lead to poisoning with symptoms including vomiting, nausea or diarrhea. However, worse cases can also occur.

"Pwede kasi siyang pumunta sa blood, tapos sepsis, ang worst complication could be a toxic shock syndrome (The bacteria can cause sepsis)," Rivera warned.

Sepsis is a complication from infection that can lead to multi-organ failure or a septic shock. It is caused by chemicals released into the bloodstream originally intended to fight infections, but however causes abnormal responses to the body. Any one can be prone to the disease, but it is more common among those with weak immune system especially adults.

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS), meanwhile can also lead to multi-organ failure, experts said. Normally, it manifests itself as high fever, rash, or hypertension. Toxins it produces can be harmful once it enters wounds in the body.

Due to these potential risks, experts warn the public to brace against possible diseases through undertaking sanitary precautions.

Experts advise refrigerating most foods such as raw products and holiday leftovers to avoid bacteria from multiplying. Thorough cooking and reheating of food is also a must before serving. Food must also be placed in separate containers to avoid cross contamination of bacteria.

Further, cleanliness of containers, kitchenware, and utensils must also be ensured because they can be potential bacteria carriers. People who prepare food must also ensure safety precautionary measures by frequently washing their hands before and after handling of food.

Lastly, maintaining overall personal and kitchen cleanliness can help prevent diseases.