Food Safety Tips for Summer

Nova Scotians who want to make the most of their summer should keep food safety in mind.

The Department of Agriculture's food safety division is stressing the importance of safe food handling. Following a few basic rules can go a long way to preventing food-borne illness and the less than enjoyable times it brings. Simply clean, separate, cook and chill.

"Summer is a time when family and friends get together for barbecues and picnics, so it is important that people are aware of safety issues when storing, handling and preparing food," said Mike Horwich, director of food protection. "A key piece of advice everyone can follow is to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold, and when in doubt, throw it out."

People should also use good food safety practices when preparing, transporting and serving food, as well as when handling fresh fruits and vegetables.

The Department of Agriculture has several helpful fact sheets about food safety on its website at www.gov.ns.ca/agri/foodsafety/factsht .

They include tips on:

• washing hands, utensils and foods
• properly thawing meats
• cooking poultry and ground meats
• avoiding cross contamination of foods
• travelling with food

One of the best ways to stay healthy is to take preventative action, including washing hands thoroughly and often.