Health is an important aspect of our daily life. One of the most important ways to maintain health is to eat good and healthy food. However, it is not uncommon for us to forget the importance of maintaining the quality of the food we consume. Quality starts from selection, storage, processing, until it is ready to be eaten by us. Improper quality of food processing is the most common cause of someone experiencing food poisoning. The risk of food poisoning can cause serious health problems and even be life threatening if the cause is not immediately identified.
In addition to improper food processing, there are several factors that also cause other food poisoning, such as exchanging cutlery or food with people with Hepatitis A virus or Norovirus, excessive and dangerous use of preservatives in food, cross-contamination of tools and materials when processing food. , and lack of hygiene when processing food.
Food poisoning is characterized by nausea and vomiting which is the body's natural response in eliminating toxins in the body's system. These signs will appear accompanied by diarrhea, headaches, fever, and cramps in the stomach area. If you experience these signs after consuming food that is suspected to be contaminated, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Doctors can provide the right diagnosis and treatment needed to speed recovery.
How to Maintain the Quality of Our Food?
Maintaining the quality of our food is the main way to avoid the risk of poisoning that can occur. What is eaten and enters the mouth, must benefit the body and not the other way around. Here are some steps we can follow to maintain the quality of food to avoid the dangers of food poisoning.
- Choose a Trusted Food Source
Make sure we buy food from a trusted place, such as traditional markets or supermarkets whose quality is guaranteed. Also pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturer or distributor of the food we buy. This will help ensure that we are getting fresh, quality food. - Pay attention to the Expiration Date
It is important to always check the expiration date on food packaging before buying and consuming it. Avoid buying or using food that has passed its expiration date, because the quality may have decreased or even has the potential to cause poisoning. - Note the condition of the packaging
Make sure the food packaging is in good condition and not damaged. If there is damage or leakage on the packaging, you should avoid buying or consuming the food, because this could be a sign that the food is contaminated or contaminated. - Store Food Properly
After buying food, make sure it is stored properly according to the storage instructions printed on the packaging or according to the type of food listed. For example, fresh foods such as meat, fish or dairy products should be stored in the refrigerator at the proper temperature to keep them fresh and safe to eat. - Avoid Cross Contamination
Keep raw foods separate from cooked or prepared foods. Use separate knives, cutting boards and cooking utensils for raw and cooked ingredients. This will prevent cross contamination and reduce the risk of poisoning. - Wash Food Ingredients Well
Before cooking or consuming food, make sure to wash it first with clean running water. This will help remove any dirt, pesticide residue, and bacteria that may be on the surface of the food. - Pay Attention to Food Processing Methods
Also make sure, we cook food properly and at the right temperature. Cooking food to recommended safety levels will kill any bacteria, viruses or parasites that may be present on the food. - Keep Clean Cookware
Clean cooking utensils, such as knives, cutting boards and other utensils, with soap and hot water after use. This will help remove dirt, food residue and bacteria adhering to the equipment.
By following the steps above, we can maintain the quality of food and reduce the risk of poisoning. Always prioritize hygiene and safety in food preparation and consumption.
Article written by dr. Yuliyana Kusaeri, M. Nutrition, Sp.GK (Clinical Nutrition Specialist at EMC Pekayon Hospital).