Food Hygiene

Definition

Food hygiene refers to the practices that prevent food contamination and ensure it is safe to eat. It involves handling, storing, and preparing food in a way that minimizes the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Food hygiene encompasses a series of practices and measures taken to maintain the safety and integrity of food, focusing on the elimination of potential biological, chemical, and physical hazards that could lead to foodborne diseases. It is a critical aspect of food safety systems, guided by regulations and standard operating procedures to ensure public health protection.

Benefits

• Reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses.
• Ensures safer food consumption.
• Prolongs the shelf life of food by preventing contamination.
• Enhances the quality and nutritional value of food.

Examples

• Proper washing of fruits and vegetables to remove pesticides and bacteria.
• Cooking meat to the appropriate temperature to kill harmful bacteria.
• Storing food in clean, sealed containers to prevent spoilage.

Additional Information

• Importance: Food hygiene is crucial for preventing foodborne diseases, which can cause illness or even death. It is particularly important for vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.

Related Terms

• Food Safety

References

• Food hygiene: World Health Organization
• Food Safety: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention