It is estimated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that nearly 200 diseases can be transmitted through food. About 76 million Americans become ill from food each year. By understanding food safety guidelines and food handling safety, as well as food preparation safety, both children and adults can prevent foodborne illnesses such as Escherichia coli and Streptococcus canis bacteria, among others. Under an adult’s care and responsibility, kids can easily take part in making sure food is clean and safe to eat. They can also learn about proper handwashing before handling food. By starting early, people can learn about safety and sanitation in the kitchen. This includes kitchen hygiene and kitchen safety tips. Including children in the process helps them learn healthy habits for life.
Because dirt and germs can be ingested during food consumption, it’s important to teach kids to wash their hands with soap and water before and after they eat.
Food safety guidelines indicate that food should always be stored below 40 degrees farenheit and heated to temperatures about 140 degrees farenheit. Food that has been left out for longer than two hours should be thrown away due to bacteria formation.
According to food safety guidelines, children should always ask before eating food that has been left out. Also taught by food safety guidelines, kids should avoid storing food and drinks in containers not designed for food storage, such as cups, pitchers or decorative painted containers due to the fact that they may contain lead or toxins that can enter the food. Microwave safe containers should be used when heating food in the microwave.