[Press Release] : FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Holiday Food Safety

[Press Releases]

For Immediate Release
November 22, 2010
 
Geni Alexander, Public Information Officer
(573) 874-7632 or gaalexan at gocolumbiamo.com  
 
 
Holiday Season Prompts Food Safety Reminder
 
With holiday season fast approaching, the Columbia/Boone County
Department of Public Health and Human Services reminds residents to
practice safe food preparation for family gatherings. 
 
Every year, an estimated 76 million cases of foodborne illness occur 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 and
Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are 300,000 hospitalizations and
5,000 deaths related to foodborne illnesses each year.
 
Foodborne illnesses 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
associate with foodborne illness, however nausea, vomiting, abdominal
cramps and diarrhea are often present.
 
When preparing holiday feasts, use these simple precautions to reduce
the risk of foodborne illness:
 
·         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 at the correct temperature and
cooking time 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 temperature. 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 41°F or less.
 
Staff at the Columbia/Boone County Department of Public Health and
Human Services performs routine monitoring of foodborne illnesses
through surveillance. Suspected foodborne illnesses should be reported
to the department by calling 573-874-7346 or by completing the form
online at www.gocolumbiamo.com. Oftentimes, reports from concerned
citizens are how outbreaks are first detected. 
 
Properly preparing the food at your holiday celebrations can help
ensure a safe and healthier holiday season. 
 
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