Christmas is a time for family, friends, and delicious feasts. As joyous as the season is, preparing food for large gatherings comes with its challenges—especially when young children, elderly family members, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems are involved. These groups are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses, so following safe food preparation practices is essential. Why Christmas Dinners Need Extra Food Safety Holiday gatherings often bring unique food safety risks: Plan Ahead for a Safe Christmas Feast Proper planning ensures your loved ones stay healthy. Here’s how: Avoid the Temperature Danger Zone The “temperature danger zone,” between 5°C […]

Packing a lunch for yourself or your child is a practical and cost-effective choice that promotes healthy eating. However, maintaining food safety is crucial, especially since bacteria can proliferate rapidly under certain conditions. This is particularly important in hot weather and with foods such as salads and cold meats. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your packed lunches are safe and nutritious. 1. Choosing Low-Risk Foods When selecting foods for lunches, prioritize those that are less likely to cause foodborne illness. Opt for: 2. Choosing the Right Lunchbox The lunchbox you choose plays a vital role in keeping food safe. […]

Pregnancy is a crucial time for both the mother and the developing baby, making it essential to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet. A healthy diet not only supports the baby’s growth and development but also helps the mother stay healthy and energized. While it’s ideal to start eating well before conception, it’s never too late to begin. Here’s a detailed guide on what to include in your diet during pregnancy and what to avoid. Essential Nutrients During Pregnancy During pregnancy, the need for certain nutrients increases, although the requirement for additional kilojoules (calories) is relatively small. Key nutrients to […]

In the world of packaged foods, a small set of numbers and words can hold significant importance: ‘Use-By’ and ‘Best-Before’ dates. These labels serve as guides for consumers, offering insights into the freshness, quality, and safety of the products they purchase. Let’s unravel the mystery behind these dates and explore how consumers can make the most of this information. Understanding ‘Best-Before’ Dates: Most packaged foods with a shelf life of less than 2 years are adorned with either a ‘Best-Before’ or ‘Use-By’ date. The ‘Best-Before’ date is not a strict deadline; instead, it signifies the period during which the product […]