As summer temperatures rise, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) is urging the public to be extra careful when handling food and to report food safety violations by calling 16000. In a new awareness campaign, the ministry said good food hygiene can prevent diseases.
Key safety advice from MoPH:
- Wash hands, keep cooking surfaces clean, and store food properly.
- Avoid eating food with an unusual color, smell, or texture.
- If you suspect food poisoning, see a doctor and keep leftover food for investigation.
- In restaurants, check that plates, utensils, and tables are clean. Return any dish that appears damaged.
For deliveries: Food should arrive in sealed packaging, cold items should be cold, and hot items should be hot. Refrigerate immediately if not eaten. Do not eat or refreeze thawed ice cream.
For picnics: Keep hot food above 65°C and cold food in ice chests. Cover food to protect it from dust and insects. Do not use raw food containers for cooked food. Leave food out for more than two hours.
When shopping: Avoid carrying uncovered food in hot or dusty places.
In the kitchen: Defrost food in the fridge, never refreeze thawed foods, marinate in the fridge, and store perishable foods below 4°C. Sick people should not prepare food. Keep bottled water away from heat.
The ministry reminded the public that the best ways to protect families from foodborne illnesses this summer are clean hands, safe storage, and proper cooking.
