Food Safety

Definition

Food safety refers to the practices and precautions taken to ensure that food is safe to eat and free from contamination.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Food safety encompasses a series of practices and standards applied from food production to consumption to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure the physical, chemical, and biological integrity of food. This includes guidelines on handling, preparation, storage, and cooking to avoid contamination and spoilage.

Benefits

• Prevents foodborne illnesses
• Ensures the quality and nutritional value of foods
• Minimizes the risk of contamination and adulteration
• Protects public health by maintaining food safety standards

Examples

• Proper handwashing before handling food
• Cooking meats to the correct internal temperature
• Avoiding cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables
• Storing foods at appropriate temperatures

Additional Information

• Importance: Food safety is crucial to prevent outbreaks of foodborne illnesses and to maintain consumer trust in food systems. Proper food safety practices can reduce medical costs and prevent long-term health consequences associated with consuming contaminated food.

Related Terms

• Foodborne Illness
• Cross-contamination
• Temperature Control
• Hygiene Practices

References

• Food Safety Basics from the CDC
• World Health Organization: Food Safety