• Food and Gastronomy -> Culinary techniques and food preparation

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Should food safety be a bigger concern for consumers when dining out?

Stacia O'Brallaghan

Yes, food safety should definitely be a bigger concern for us when we eat out! When we go to a restaurant or buy ready-to-eat food, we trust that the food is safe and won't make us sick. But sometimes, food can get contaminated with germs, bacteria or other harmful things, which can make us really sick and even land us in the hospital.

That's why it's important to pay attention to food safety when we dine out. Here are some things we can do as consumers to stay safe:

- Choose restaurants and eateries that are clean, tidy and look hygienic. If a place looks dirty or messy, that can be a red flag that they don't take food safety seriously.
- Check the restaurant's health rating and inspection records, if available. This information should give us an idea of how well the restaurant follows food safety guidelines, and whether they've had any violations in the past.
- Ask questions about how the food is prepared, stored and cooked. For example, we can ask if the food is made fresh or reheated, if they use gloves or other protective gear while handling food, and if they check the temperature of cooked food to make sure it's safe.
- Be mindful of cross-contamination. This is when germs from one food item spread to another food item. For instance, if a cook uses the same cutting board for raw chicken and vegetables without washing it in between, the vegetables can get contaminated with chicken bacteria. We can ask our server or chef to use separate utensils and surfaces for raw and cooked foods, and to wash their hands often.
- Pay attention to the food itself. If it looks or smells off, don't eat it. If it's served cold when it should be hot, or vice versa, send it back. Trust our instincts and don't take chances with our health.

Remember, food safety is not just the responsibility of the restaurant or eatery. It's our responsibility as consumers to take steps to protect ourselves and our families. By being informed, vigilant and cautious, we can reduce the risk of foodborne illness and enjoy our meals with peace of mind.