The holidays are a time for delicious meals, but violating the rules of food storage and preparation can have undesirable consequences. In December-January 2023-2024, 6,527 cases of food poisoning , which is 13% more than last year, the Public Health Center of Ukraine reports.
Experts pay special attention to blackouts, which make it difficult to store products in proper conditions. Food poisoning is most often caused by the following products:
- raw eggs and meat;
- unpasteurized milk and soft cheeses;
- home preservation;
- confectionery products with cream.
The Center for Public Health provides a number of recommendations on how to reduce the risk of poisoning:
- Hygiene : wash your hands, regularly clean kitchen surfaces and utensils.
- Separate areas : use separate cutting boards for raw and prepared foods.
- Heat treatment : thoroughly cook meat, fish and seafood.
- Freshness of products : check expiration dates, avoid using questionable products.
- Proper storage : do not leave food on the table for more than two hours, put leftovers in the refrigerator immediately after the celebration.
It is emphasized separately: the most vulnerable to food poisoning are children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immunity.
If nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea or vomiting appeared after the festive feast, this could be a sign of poisoning. In such cases, you should immediately consult a doctor.
