8 Tips for a Safe Kitchen
Even if you do your best to protect your family from bacteria in the kitchen, you still might make some of the most common mistakes that can make you and your loved ones very sick.
1. Check your kitchen counters.
Some gems can love on surfaces for a whole week, so take special care to sanitize your kitchen sink and countertops. Apply both hot soapy water and spray sanitizer to kill all bacteria.
2. Keep your reusable bags clean.
Wash your reusable bags regularly because any spilled liquids (raw red meat juices, milk, etc.) make it a perfect space for bacteria spread.
3. Cook your meat soon after purchase.
Any meat has a short storage span, so make sure to prepare it within a couple of days after you buy it. Moreover, keep the fresh meat on the bottom shelf or put it in a container to avoid any spills that can spoil the food below.
4. Keep your fridge cool enough.
The optimal temperature for your refrigerator is between 40 and 140 F, and 0 F for your freezer.
5. Always keep fresh produce in the fridge.
Fresh mushrooms, lettuce, berries, sliced fruits, and vegetables should be immediately put in the refrigerator because they start to rot within two hours.
6. Wash every fruit and vegetable you’re going to serve
Even if you don’t eat the skin of a melon or a banana, they still need a good scrub because when you cut them with a knife, it can carry dirt and bacteria right into your food.
7. Sanitize sponges.
Dishrags and sponges are a source of harmful bacteria. Remember to zap used sponges in your microwave for a minute every two days, and after two weeks of use, throw them away.
8. Put leftovers in the fridge immediately.
Don’t keep any cooked dishes out of the refrigerator for more than two hours because bacteria will start to spread after this time.