It’s the perfect time to raise awareness about the importance of safe and healthy food practices. Our choices as consumers play a significant role in ensuring the safety of the food we eat. So, let’s celebrate this special day by sharing some valuable tips to keep our meals safe and nutritious.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Wash Those Hands! Clean hands are the foundation of food safety. Before handling any food, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This simple step helps eliminate harmful bacteria and prevents the spread of foodborne illnesses.
2. Fresh is Fantastic! When selecting fruits, vegetables, and other perishable items, choose fresh produce. Check for signs of spoilage, such as mold, discoloration, or unpleasant odors. Consuming fresh food not only ensures better taste but also reduces the risk of contamination.
3. Store It Right! Proper storage is vital to maintaining food safety. Follow the storage instructions on packaging and be mindful of temperature requirements. Keep perishable items refrigerated to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, and avoid storing raw and cooked foods together to prevent cross-contamination.
4. Cook with Confidence! Cooking food thoroughly kills bacteria and other pathogens. Use a food thermometer to ensure that meat, poultry, and seafood reach the recommended internal temperatures. Avoid eating undercooked or raw dishes, as they may contain harmful microorganisms.
5. Be Mindful of Expiry Dates! Before consuming any packaged food or beverages, check the expiration date. Expired products may lose their nutritional value and can pose health risks.
In Belgium, the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), the food safety authority, works tirelessly to ensure that food products exported to China meet the strictest safety standards.ย
Through thorough inspections, certifications, and laboratory tests conducted in Belgium, FASFC guarantees that Belgian food products entering the Chinese market are safe to consume. In their commitment to transparency and traceability, FASFC utilizes advanced systems like the Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) that enables real-time information exchange, ensuring swift actions are taken to address any potential risks or non-compliant food products, providing peace of mind to Chinese consumers.
Let’s work together to ensure that our meals are safe, healthy, and enjoyable. This World Food Safety Day, let’s celebrate by making conscious choices, from farm to fork. Together, we can contribute to a safer and healthier food environment for everyone.
