Living a Healthy Life -- Wellness and Physical Fitness
Classes:
Introduction > Take the Test > Nutrition and Meal Preparation > Exercise and Physical Fitness > Prevention and Regular Check-Ups > Special Considerations > Conclusion
Nutrition and Meal Preparation > Dietary Guidelines > Having a Balanced Diet > Food Preparation and Safety > Shopping > Storing > Cooking/Preparing Foods > Quick Tips for Cooking and Eating on the Go!
Cooking / Preparing Foods
Wash, wash, wash!
Keeping a clean kitchen, dishes, and hands is the easiest way to avoid getting sick from food. Wash your hands before preparing a meal, after any interruption (like going to the bathroom, taking care of a child, or touching a pet), and before eating. Use clean utensils (dishes, cutting boards, knives, etc.) for each food item, and keep your kitchen counter tops, oven, dish rags, refrigerator, etc., clean of food and dirt.
Cook food thoroughly.
Many raw foods (especially chicken, fish, meats, and eggs) may have bacteria that can make you sick. Cooking these foods thoroughly can kill these bacteria, making them harmless. Be sure when cooking (or ordering foods from restaurants) that the food is well cooked. Don't eat poultry or eggs that have not been cooked thoroughly and try to order red meat that is at least medium to well done. If you are preparing frozen meat, fish, or poultry, be sure it is completely thawed before cooking.
Eat cooked foods immediately.
Eat cooked foods while still hot - once they start to cool, bacteria may start to grow on them. If you plan to prepare food ahead of time or keep leftovers, be sure to store them properly.
Avoid contact between raw foods and cooked foods.
This is true for when you are cooking foods and storing foods. Wash anything that comes in contact with raw food (this includes dishes, cutting boards, and your hands!) before cooking or storing other foods.
For more information on kitchen safety and fire safety (when cooking) visit our courses on home safety and fire safety.
Next: Quick Tips for Cooking and Eating on the Go!
