Food poisoning and parasitic infections are common health concerns worldwide, but with simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risks. Whether cooking steak, eating fresh produce, or dining abroad, following proper food safety practices can protect you and your loved ones. Here are seven proven tips to help you stay safe..

Tip #1: Cook Meat and Steak Thoroughly

Ensuring meat reaches the appropriate internal temperature is critical to killing harmful bacteria and parasites. For steak, cook to at least 145°F (63°C) and allow it to rest for three minutes before consumption. Ground beef, poultry, and pork require higher temperatures. Always use a food thermometer for accuracy, as undercooked meat is a common source of infections like salmonella and toxoplasmosis.

Tip #2: Wash Vegetables and Fruits with Clean Water

Fresh produce can carry harmful organisms from soil, water, or handling. Washing fruits and vegetables under clean, running water removes surface contaminants. For added safety, use a vegetable brush for items like carrots or cucumbers and consider peeling items that cannot be thoroughly cleaned.

Tip #3: Don’t Eat Raw Eggs

Raw or undercooked eggs can harbor salmonella, a bacteria causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms. Avoid foods like raw cookie dough, homemade mayonnaise, or any dish that includes uncooked eggs. Opt for pasteurized eggs in recipes that require raw or lightly cooked eggs.

Tip #4: Freeze Meat and Fish to Kill Parasites

Freezing can eliminate many parasites, especially in fish and wild game. Freeze meat at -4°F (-20°C) or below for several days before cooking or eating raw in dishes like sushi or sashimi. This practice is especially important when consuming fish from non-commercial sources.

Tip #5: Handle Food with Clean Hands

Proper hand hygiene is one of the simplest ways to prevent contamination. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat, touching your face, or using the restroom. Clean utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces that come into contact with raw food to avoid cross-contamination.

Tip #6: Only Drink Clean or Treated Water

Contaminated water is a major source of parasitic infections like giardiasis. Always drink water from trusted sources or treat it by boiling, filtering, or using purification tablets when traveling in areas with questionable water quality. Avoid using untreated water for brushing your teeth or washing food.

Tip #7: Only Eat Where There’s Good Sanitation

When dining out, choose establishments known for good hygiene practices. Avoid street food or buffets in areas with poor sanitation standards. If you’re unsure about the cleanliness of a restaurant, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

By following these seven tips, you can enjoy your meals with confidence, reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, and maintain your health, whether at home or abroad. For more food safety tips and health advice, check out the videos on my YouTube Channel. Stay safe and eat well!