[Press Release] : Holiday season prompts food safety reminder

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: Deidre Wood, Public Information Specialist - (573) 874-7632,
dfwood at GoColumbiaMo.com 

Holiday season prompts food safety reminder

COLUMBIA, MO (November 20, 2007) - With holiday season fast
approaching, the Columbia/Boone County Health Department would like to
remind the community about safe food preparation for family gatherings.


Every year an estimated 76 million cases of foodborne diseases occurs
in the United States. While the majority of these cases are mild and
cause symptoms for only a couple of days, the Centers for Disease
Control (CDC) estimates that there are 325,000 hospitalizations and
5,000 deaths related to foodborne diseases each year.

Foodborne diseases are caused by consuming contaminated foods or
beverages. There are over 250 known foodborne diseases that are caused
by a variety of bacteria, viruses and parasites. Those most vulnerable
to these illnesses are children, seniors, pregnant women and those with
a weakened immune system. There is not a specific set of symptoms,
however nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and diarrhea are often
present.

When preparing holiday feasts, there are some simple precautions that
consumers can use to reduce the risk:

● Clean: Wash hands and surfaces often. Bacteria can spread
throughout the kitchen and infect cutting boards, knives, sponges, and
counter tops. 
● Separate: Don't cross-contaminate. Keep raw meats, poultry and
seafood away from other foods that are ready-to-eat. 
● Cook: Properly cooking foods for a long enough time and at a high
enough temperature kills harmful bacteria. A whole turkey is safely
cooked when the internal temperature is 165°F throughout. Also remember
that those most eager to sample raw cookie dough are often the most
vulnerable - kids.
● Chill: Any perishable food on the buffet table should be discarded
after two hours at room temperatures. Leftover turkey should be cut into
small pieces and placed in the refrigerator immediately. To keep harmful
bacteria from growing and multiplying, refrigerators should be set at
41ºF or less.

At the Columbia/Boone County Health Department, we perform routine
monitoring of foodborne illnesses through surveillance. Please report
suspected illnesses to the Columbia/Boone County Health Department
through the Web site at www.GoColumbiaMo.com. Often reports from
concerned citizens are how outbreaks are first detected. By preparing
your food properly this holiday season, you can ensure a safe, happy and
enjoyable time of year.

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