Preparing your food safely

How Food Poisoning Happens

Food poisoning happens when food that has been contaminated with bacteria is eaten.

Bacteria that cause food poisoning cannot move on their own – they are spread from one place to another by incorrect food handling practices or by contact with pets, flies or other pests.

Stopping the spread of bacteria:

• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water:
  • before handling food, especially cooked food
  • after going to the toilet
  • between handling raw and cooked foods.
• After washing, dry your hands thoroughly with paper towel or a clean towel.
• Avoid using bare hands to touch food. Use tongs, forks and spoons whenever possible.
• Always clean and sanitise work surfaces and utensils with a clean dishcloth. Sanitisers kill bacteria, while detergents only remove dirt and grease.  
• Wash and sanitise your dish cloth regularly.
• Replace dish cloths on a regular basis, ideally every day, and especially if frayed or torn.
• Dirty tea towels can also spread bacteria, so it is important to wash/change them regularly.
• Wash fruits and vegetables, especially if eaten raw.
• Use safe, treated water when preparing food and cleaning.
• Use separate cutting boards and knives for each type of food, for example raw meat, fish, vegetables and cooked foods.
• Protect food preparation areas and food from pests, insects and pets.

How to wash your hands correctly

Warm, soapy water is the best option for washing your hands when they are visibly dirty. Follow these simple tips to ensure good hand hygiene.

Can I use waterless hand sanitiser?

An alcohol-based hand rub (hand sanitiser) is a good way to clean your hands if you don't have access to soap and water. Hand sanitiser is only effective if your hands have no visible dirt on them.

To use hand sanitiser:

1. Put about half a teaspoon of the product in the palm of your hand, rub your hands together, covering all the surfaces of your hand, including between your fingers.
2. Keep rubbing until your hands are dry (about 20 to 30 seconds).

Remember, whenever you are preparing food, you should always use hygienic practices.

Tips on safe food handling in the home, including the preparation of a dish using a raw egg sauce, are available in the video clip

Food Safety Fundamentals with Adam Liaw