As we near the conclusion of 2024, a season of festivals, gatherings, and festive meals, the Environmental Health Division continues to focus on food safety. It has been observed that more people develop food poisoning or gastroenteritis around this time and therefore the Ministry wants to take the opportunity to remind the public of precautionary measures to help protect you and your loved ones during this special time. Some of the food safety guidelines are:
• Maintain proper heating temperatures for hot foods of at least 140°F. Keep a cooling temperature of at least 40°F for cold foods and 0°F for frozen foods.
• When purchasing chilled foods, such as meats and fish, place them in an ice-filled cooler to avoid spoilage.
• To reduce spoiling, store leftovers in the refrigerator in little portions rather than large quantities.
• Avoid overfilling freezers, as this raises the temperature and accelerates the expiration of items.
• Food should be stored in the refrigerator, with the food least likely to be contaminated on the top shelves, and the most likely to be contaminated at the bottom.
• Invest in a thermometer to assist in maintaining food temperature for both cold and hot food.
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for serving different dishes, especially with a potential to cause allergic reaction.
• Before buying food, check the expiration, best purchase, and best before dates.
• Do not purchase canned goods that are unlabelled, dented, bulging or rusted.
• Purchase locally produced meat that has been inspected and stamped by the Environmental Health Division.
• Purchase food from providers who have been licensed by the Environmental Health Division.
• Hands should be frequently washed before, during, and after each task.
In addition to thanking the public for their cooperation, the Division will continue to engage with food service businesses and encourage everyone to follow these food safety guidelines. We also wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season.