Although the United States food supply is incredibly safe, around one in six Americans end up with food poisoning every year. Food poisoning occurs when your food is contaminated by nasty bacteria (like staphylococcus or E. coli), which is commonly caused by improper food handling or storage. Food hygiene at home therefore shouldn’t be an afterthought. By taking key food hygiene steps, you can better keep your kitchen hygienic and your food safe and fresh.
Keep Your Refrigerator at the Right Temperature
Keeping your fridge at the right temperature is essential for keeping bad bacteria at bay and, consequently, preventing the risk of food poisoning.
The ideal temperature for your refrigerator, according to the FDA, is at or below 40°F – however, by keeping it even lower at between 35°F-38°F, you can better protect your food from harmful bacteria (once it gets any warmer than 40°F, bacteria starts multiplying fast). 35°F-38°F is as cold as your food can get without freezing. In fact, temperatures any higher than this may even be too warm for your refrigerator (particularly if the in-built temperate gauge isn’t truly accurate).
In that case, you’ll also find the contents of your fridge goes off too fast, which in turn can cause tummy upsets thanks to bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella.
Prevent Pests
One essential aspect of maintaining food safety in your kitchen is ensuring proper pest control measures are in place, such as contacting a reliable pest control company like pest control Columbus Oh to handle any infestations.
As many as 124 million households across the U.S. have reported seeing roaches in their homes in the past year, while 14.8 million have seen rodents. Pests carry a host of diseases, as well as the potential to damage your home.
Pest prevention should therefore be a key priority for everyone. So, for example, be sure to wipe down your counters regularly to ensure there’s no lingering crumbs or spills. Peanut butter, in particular, is a huge magnet for cockroaches and rodents.
You should keep the outside of the jar clean, and store it safely away in a closed cupboard. Ideally, you should also store dried foods like flours, grains, and seeds in food-safe jars or Tupperware; packets can be easy to spill and are tempting for pests.
Wash your Dish Towels Regularly
You may not realize it, but your dish towels are major breeding grounds for bacteria, particularly if they’re damp. It’s therefore crucial to wash them regularly.
Ideally, you want to wash your dish towels at 140°F or hotter (just be careful not to exceed the maximum temperature stated on the care label).
The high heat ensures bacteria and other nasties are killed successfully. Similarly, your washing-up sponges also harbor harmful bacteria, so you’ll also need to wash these just as often.
For example, you can soak them in an antibacterial sterilizing solution, before writing them out, and leaving them to air dry. You may also want to invest in sponges that can be machine washed at high heats like 140°F.
Food hygiene should be a key consideration in every kitchen. By keeping your refrigerator at the right temperature, preventing pests, and washing your dish towels regularly, you can prevent unwanted pests and germs and keep your kitchen safe.
Read Also
- Understanding the Importance of Routine Health Screenings for Seniors
Did you know that the global routine health screening market is expected to reach $105.93 billion by 2033? This highlights the rising focus on preventive healthcare. As we age, our bodies go through many changes. Staying proactive about health becomes more important with time. Routine health screenings for seniors play a vital role in maintaining… Read more: Understanding the Importance of Routine Health Screenings for Seniors - Why Modern Retirement Facilities Are Vital for Chronic Disease CareToday’s retirement feels different from the past. Modern communities are bright, active, and full of life. They give seniors comfort while also providing the care needed for health and safety. For those living with long-term conditions like diabetes or heart disease, these places bring both support and peace of mind. Here, life doesn’t slow down-it… Read more: Why Modern Retirement Facilities Are Vital for Chronic Disease Care
- Understanding Breast Cancer Risks and Signs in Older MenMany people associate breast cancer with women. But did you know that breast cancer risk in older men is a significant health concern? Although it is rare, men can develop this disease, especially in later years. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and necessary preventive actions can lead to earlier detection and treatment, ultimately improving survival rates.… Read more: Understanding Breast Cancer Risks and Signs in Older Men
- How to Choose the Perfect Eyewear for Your Face Shape and StyleEyewear has evolved far beyond a simple vision aid—today, it’s a bold statement of personality, professionalism, and fashion sense. Whether you’re selecting your first pair or updating your look, the right frames can enhance your features, elevate your confidence, and even influence first impressions. But with endless options available, how do you find the perfect… Read more: How to Choose the Perfect Eyewear for Your Face Shape and Style
- How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community for Your NeedsHow do you know which senior living community fits your needs best? Choosing the right place can feel tricky with so many options, from independent living to assisted care. It’s important to think about daily routines, medical support, social activities, and the kind of environment that feels safe and welcoming. You also want a place… Read more: How to Choose the Right Senior Living Community for Your Needs
- Breast Cancer Prevention: The Role of Regular ExerciseIn a world where health challenges loom large, the call for proactive steps towards wellness has never been louder. One powerful ally in the fight against breast cancer is regular exercise-a proven strategy that works wonders not just for physical well-being but also for mental resilience. In this article, we delve into how exercise contributes… Read more: Breast Cancer Prevention: The Role of Regular Exercise
- The Rise of Preventative Care: Why Osteopathy Fits the MomentThe Shift Toward Prevention Healthcare is changing direction. Instead of reacting to illness, more people are focusing on how to stay healthy in the first place. Preventative care has become one of the biggest global health trends of the decade. According to the World Health Organization, 60% to 80% of chronic diseases could be prevented… Read more: The Rise of Preventative Care: Why Osteopathy Fits the Moment
- A Guide to Specialized Healthcare: Experts in Addiction Recovery, Orthopedics, and Cosmetic SurgeryIntroduction to Specialized Healthcare Finding the right expertise is crucial when facing health challenges. General care is important, but sometimes, you need a deeper level of knowledge. Specialized healthcare can offer more precise solutions and better results. It means connecting with experts who focus on specific areas of medicine. Navigating the healthcare system can be… Read more: A Guide to Specialized Healthcare: Experts in Addiction Recovery, Orthopedics, and Cosmetic Surgery
