As World Food Safety Day 2024 approaches, it is important to understand the myths and facts surrounding food safety to ensure that everyone has access to safe and nutritious food. Contrary to popular belief, the smell or appearance of food does not determine its safety and washing raw poultry can actually spread harmful microorganisms. Thawing frozen foods at room temperature and consuming dropped food should also be avoided. Additionally, it is crucial to properly wash all types of food before consumption, including organic foods. Celebrate this day by informing yourself about effective food safety measures.
World Food Safety Day, observed annually on June 7th, aims to raise awareness about the importance of food safety and promote practices that ensure access to safe and nutritious food for all.
Food safety refers to the practices and conditions that prevent contamination and spoilage of food, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Food can become contaminated through various sources, including:
Foodborne illnesses can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe health problems and even death. Vulnerable populations, such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly, are particularly at risk.
To ensure food safety, it is essential to dispel common myths and adhere to evidence-based practices:
Myth 1: You can tell if food is safe by its smell or appearance. Fact: The smell or appearance of food does not accurately indicate its safety. Some pathogenic microorganisms may not produce visible signs of spoilage.
Myth 2: You should wash raw poultry before cooking. Fact: Washing raw poultry can actually spread harmful microorganisms by splashing them around the kitchen. Cook poultry thoroughly to kill any pathogens.
Myth 3: It is safe to thaw frozen foods at room temperature. Fact: Thawing frozen foods at room temperature creates an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. Thaw food safely in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave.
Myth 4: You can eat food that has been dropped on the floor if you pick it up quickly. Fact: Food that has been dropped on the floor can pick up bacteria or other contaminants, even if it appears clean. Discard any food that has been dropped on the floor.
Myth 5: Organic food is safer than conventionally grown food. Fact: While organic food is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, it can still become contaminated with microorganisms or other hazards during production, harvesting, or storage. All food should be washed thoroughly before consumption.
Q1: What is the most common cause of foodborne illness? A: Norovirus is the most commonly reported cause of foodborne illness in the United States.
Q2: What are the symptoms of a foodborne illness? A: Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and muscle aches.
Q3: How can I prevent foodborne illness? A: Follow basic food safety practices such as washing hands before handling food, cooking food thoroughly, avoiding cross-contamination, and refrigerating perishable foods promptly.
Q4: What should I do if I think I have a foodborne illness? A: Seek medical attention promptly. Inform your doctor about the foods you have eaten recently to help identify the source of contamination.
Q5: What is the role of World Food Safety Day? A: World Food Safety Day raises awareness about the importance of food safety and encourages governments, organizations, and individuals to take action to promote safe food practices.
By understanding the myths and facts about food safety and adhering to evidence-based practices, we can all contribute to ensuring a safe and nutritious food supply for everyone.
With 2024 coming to an end, it's time to reflect on the past year and look towards the future. As we enter 2025, it's the perfect time to spread positivity and send warm New Year wishes to those we care about. This blank canvas of a new year is full of possibilities and we all have the chance to make it the best one yet. Here are some heartfelt wishes to share with your loved ones.
Somvati Amavasya is an auspicious day for Hindus to seek blessings from their ancestors and alleviate Pitra Dosh. The last Somvati Amavasya of 2024 falls on Monday, December 30, during the Pausha month. Devotees perform rituals and take a holy dip in sacred rivers to seek relief from ancestral karmic debt and ensure the peace and blessings of their ancestors.
The highly controversial self-proclaimed 'godman' Sant Rampal has been sent to judicial custody till November 28 by the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The court cancelled his bail in a 2006 murder case and ordered his immediate arrest. Rampal had been evading his appearance in court for weeks, leading to a standoff between his supporters and the police. His followers at his ashram in Haryana are now speaking out about being held against their will.
As the New Year approaches, many people are making plans to celebrate and toast to the year ahead. However, with busy schedules and holiday closures, finding a place to eat can be a challenge. Thankfully, some popular fast food and casual restaurants will be open on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Check out their operating hours and plan your perfect New Year's dinner with loved ones.
Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting and former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar criticize the 20% match fee fine imposed on Virat Kohli for his on-field altercation with debutant Sam Konstas. While Ponting argues that the punishment is not harsh enough, Gavaskar states that it was just a "slap on the wrist" for a highly paid professional like Kohli. The incident occurred during Konstas' much-anticipated debut in Australia, where he made headlines for playing a key role in India's tussle against Australia. Despite the controversial incident, Australia ended the day on a strong note with a total of 311/6.
A man in Pine Island narrowly escaped a catastrophic fire when he jumped into a nearby canal after sustaining burns from an explosion. Neighbors rushed to his aid, providing dry clothes and helping him out of the water. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but witnesses say the man may have been pushed out of the trailer after an explosion occurred while lighting a cigarette.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi sends warm wishes to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and everyone worldwide observing the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah. PM Modi hopes for the light of Hanukkah to bring hope, peace, and strength to everyone's lives. He concludes his message with a traditional Hanukkah greeting, "Hanukkah Sameach!"
A home in Pine Island experienced significant damage from a chimney fire early Sunday morning. The fire department quickly responded and were able to save many of the homeowners' belongings. The cause of the fire is believed to be debris from the fireplace. Crews from multiple departments were on scene to assist and ensure there was no further risk of fire.
Although Jesus is central to the Christian faith, the Quranic narrative presents a strikingly similar account of his life. The holy book of Islam refers to many Biblical characters, including Jesus and Mary, and the angel Gabriel. Mary, the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran, has a whole chapter dedicated to her. The diverse religious traditions and scriptures of pre-Islamic Arabia played a significant role in shaping the Islamic image of Jesus. This points to a deeper connection and exchanges between Islam and Christianity in their earliest days.
As the cold wave intensifies in Himachal Pradesh, the Deputy Commissioner of Shimla District Administration, Anupam Kashyap, has assured that all departments are ready to coordinate for any adverse situations. People are advised to avoid unauthorised parking and follow the police advisory on traffic. The Himachal Bhawan in Delhi will be auctioned for the recovery of Rs 150 crore and Congress has formed a six-member coordination committee to resolve differences in the Sukhu government.