BAGUIO CITY – The City Health Services Office here reminded residents of the importance of proper food storage to prevent spoilage and foodborne diseases especially during the dry season.
“The high temperature hastens food spoilage so we have to be very careful,” City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes said in an interview Tuesday.
Among the common foodborne diseases is diarrhea, which is caused by Salmonella bacteria. Most diarrhea cases stem from eating undercooked meat, poultry, eggs or produce.
Brillantes said excess food kept in the refrigerator must be heated before consumption to prevent abdominal issues.
The “first in, first out” policy must be also observed for cooked and uncooked food kept in the refrigerator, she added.
She said thawed ingredients should not be returned to the refrigerator, thus the need to bring out only enough portions.
Aside from avoiding spoilage, she said storing adequate food will help consumers cut costs, especially amid rising prices.**Liza Agoot
