New Year’s resolutions have a terrible reputation as things we say we’re going to do, but don’t! So instead of setting yourself up for disappointment, we’ve got the resolutions you’ll want to keep for 2018 and beyond.
Resolution 1: I will wash my hands – properly!
Are you guilty of not washing your hands or doing a poor job of it before preparing food? It’s high time you committed yourself to always washing and doing it correctly.
Start by rinsing your hands in clean, running water. Add good quality soap to your hands and lather. Scrub hands for at least 10 to 15 seconds making sure you get the back of your hands and between your fingers. Thoroughly rinse under the tap. Immediately dry your hands with a single-use paper towel or clean towel.
Resolution 2: I will wash fruit and veggies before cooking or eating
The risk of contamination of your fresh produce is higher now than in previous years meaning we need to take extra care to wash correctly before consuming.
Wash your fruit and vegetables with cold tap water immediately before eating including anything you plan on peeling or cooking.
Resolution 3: I will throw out leftovers and keep a clean fridge
You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for a few days and in the freezer for months. Make sure you are eating them within the safe period and then throwing anything extra out (or adding to the compost or worm farm if appropriate).
Regularly clean out your fridge, checking the use by dates and getting rid of anything that isn’t safe to eat. Ensure you are are also taking the time to routinely clean the shelves, door and compartments of the fridge as well.
Resolution 4: I will avoid risky foods
For most of us, unless we are very young, elderly, pregnant or immunosuppressed, safe food practices will eliminate most of the risk of food poisoning. However, there are some high-risk foods that you might not know about:
- Fresh mayonnaise or aioli – uncooked egg in these condiments could contain harmful bacteria.
- Soft poached eggs – runny yolks are a risky choice given they can harbour nasty bacteria.
- Par-cooked chicken – check your chicken is cooked all the way through every time.
- Raw milk – raw milk is unpasteurised, meaning it hasn’t been heated to kill any harmful bacteria.
- Other raw foods – Raw foods can easily become contaminated with bacteria and viruses, make sure you are avoiding them or, in the case of fresh fruit and veg, washing them thoroughly.
This list of foods isn’t exhaustive; there are food safety risks with many other foods. Check out this article to find out more.
Resolution 5: I will refrigerate immediately
Whether we’re talking about the groceries you’ve just purchased or the leftovers from a grand dinner party, we must remember to refrigerate straight away. Don’t delay – refrigerate!
Your New Year’s Food Safety Resolutions
We’d love to know if you’ve taken on one of our food safety resolutions, or perhaps come up with your own for 2018. Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.