Principles
Principles
Hand Hygiene:
Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds,
especially before food preparation, after using the
restroom, and after handling raw food.
Use hand sanitizers as an additional measure, especially
when soap and water are not available.
Health Practices:
Employees should report any illness, especially
gastrointestinal symptoms, and stay home if unwell.
Ensure that any cuts or sores are covered with waterproof
bandages.
Food Storage:
Temperature Control:
Use a refrigerator thermometer to monitor temperatures
regularly.
Implement the “2-hour rule” for perishable foods left at
room temperature—discard if left out longer than 2
hours.
Proper Organization:
Store foods in airtight containers to prevent
contamination.
Arrange food in the refrigerator so that raw meats are on
the bottom shelf to prevent juices from dripping onto
other foods.
Food Preparation:
Cross-Contamination Prevention:
Use color-coded cutting boards (e.g., red for raw meat,
green for vegetables) to avoid mixing food types.
Sanitize equipment and surfaces between tasks to
eliminate residual bacteria.
Cooking Guidelines:
Use food thermometers to ensure foods reach safe
internal temperatures (e.g., poultry: 75°C, ground meats:
70°C).
Follow specific cooking guidelines for various types of
food, ensuring that all parts are cooked evenly.
Food Handling:
Minimizing Touch:
Use utensils and gloves when handling food to limit
direct contact.
Avoid touching face, hair, or clothing while handling food.
Safe Transport:
Keep cold foods on ice or in insulated bags during
transport.
Ensure hot foods are kept at temperatures above 60°C
during transport.
Cleaning and Sanitation:
Regular Inspections:
Implement routine self-inspections to ensure
compliance with hygiene practices.
Maintain records of hygiene practices, training, and
temperature logs for accountability.
Consumer Awareness:
Educate consumers about safe food handling practices
at home, including safe thawing methods and the
importance of cooking to proper temperatures.
Conclusion
Effective food hygiene practices are essential for
preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring the safety of
food for consumers. By understanding and implementing
these detailed principles, food handlers and
establishments can create a safe food environment,
contributing to public health and well-being. Regular
training, monitoring, and adherence to hygiene standards
are fundamental components in achieving these goals.