Although authorised institutions and experts in the country are constantly enforcing food safety strategies, laws and policies to protect the populace, consumers are strongly advised to KNOW and PRACTICE food safety measures.
Preventive measures recommended by WHO include keeping food clean, separating raw and cooked foods, keeping/storing food at safe temperatures, and using safe water and raw materials.
Most food-borne illness may be prevented by observing strict hygienic measures in buying, preparing, storing and serving food.
Recommended food safety tips include:
BUY right!
• Look out for counterfeit food products; report such suspected products to the authorities.
• Do not buy foodstuffs that are unreasonably bruised or damaged.
• Do not buy food in damaged packages or cans.
• Look for expiration dates on food packages. Do not buy outdated foods or foods with no expiry date; again, report such findings to the authorities.
• Buy refrigerated or frozen food after you have purchased the non-perishables.
• At the market, pack fresh fruits and vegetables separately from raw meat and poultry to avoid cross-contamination.
• Reusable bags or basket for raw meat, fish, or poultry should not be used for ready-to-eat products like fruits. Wash such bags and baskets regularly.
