Food Poisoning Prevention: ​Smart Tips to Help Protect You & Your Family From E. Coli by 30Seconds Mom

Each year, it is estimated that 48 million people become sick from foodborne illnesses in the U.S., with another 128,000 people being hospitalized and 3,000 people dying as a result. These figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show us the importance of rigorous food safety practices to lower the risk of contamination and to safeguard our family’s health.

One of the most common types of foodborne pathogens that can cause people to become sick or hospitalized is Escherichia coli (E. coli). E.coli is a bacteria that is normally found in the intestines of humans and animals, and while most strains are harmless, a few others including E. coli O157:H7, can cause severe food poisoning and, in some cases, can be fatal.

Here are some practical tips you can introduce to help keep you and your family safe from an E. coli infection.

How is E. Coli Transmitted?

Transmission of E.coli can happen in many ways. These include the following:

• Contaminated food: Common sources of food include raw and undercooked meats, unpasteurized milk and raw fruits and vegetables.

• Contaminated water: Untreated water or water contaminated with feces can cause infection.

• Feces: E. coli can be spread through contact with animal or human feces.

Safety Tips for Families 

By introducing the following food safety practices, you can reduce the risk of you and your family contracting an E. coli infection:

1. Raw Meats: Always make sure raw meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature, especially ground beef. A food thermometer can be used in home cooking to ensure meats are cooked safely. Cross-contamination between raw meat and cooked or ready-to-eat foods should also be avoided by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat. Also, make sure to refrigerate raw meats separately and in sealed containers at temperatures of 39 degrees F (4 degrees C) or below.

When eating out, never buy cooked or ready-to-eat foods that have been placed next to raw meats and always return meat, such as hamburger patties, if they are still pink inside. If you believe you became ill from E. coli due to the negligence of another, you may be entitled to compensation. For more information contact an E. Coli Lawyer who can advise you of your rights.

2. Hygiene: Always wash your hands with warm, soapy water after going to the toilet, and before and after you prepare food, especially when handling raw meat. Also make sure to wash your hands after changing diapers or coming in contact with pets or animals, such as at farms or petting zoos.

3. Wash Raw Produce: Always wash fresh produce like raw fruits and vegetables before preparing or consuming them. These food sources can become contaminated with E. coli through manure in the soil or contaminated water. Washing fruits and vegetables will remove the soil from the produce.

Take special care when washing green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and lettuce as soil and bacteria can become stuck in the layers, ridges and crevices. It is best to allow these leaves to soak in a water bath for a few minutes to let any sediment and contaminants loosen before rinsing.

By following these important food safety tips, you may be able to help prevent the risk of you or your family contracting or spreading E. coli.

Note: The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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