Find out how some precautions are essential to avoid foods contaminated by Salmonella
Traveling, picnicking, or gathering family and friends for company are some of the favorite activities of those on vacation. However, it is important to remember to pay attention to your diet, as high temperatures favor the increase in diseases transmitted by food and water, especially if stored inappropriately.
According to an estimate by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 600 million people worldwide become ill every year due to ingesting contaminated food and water. Among the most common diseases is infection caused by the Salmonella bacterium (Salmonellosis), which causes food poisoning and, in rare cases, can cause serious infections.
«Barbecues, picnics and outdoor meals are very popular during this period. However, these habits can become a health risk if proper precautions are not taken. Intense heat and inadequate food handling favor the proliferation of Salmonella, transforming summer meals into a potential source of contamination”, explains the coordinator of the Nutrition course at the Centro Universitário Integrado de Campo Mourão (PR), Janaiara Moreira Sebold Berbel.
Forms of contamination
Present in animals such as birds, pigs, reptiles and mammals – including dogs and cats – Salmonella is transmitted to humans through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat, eggs, unpasteurized milk and poorly washed fruit and vegetables. THE Contamination occurs when these foods come into contact with the feces of infected animals or during improper processing.
Symptoms of Salmonella infection
The bacterial infection can present various annoying symptoms such as diarrhea, intestinal cramps, fever, nausea, vomiting, vision changes, headache, muscle and abdominal pain, general malaise with feelings of tiredness and weakness.
“These conditions begin to manifest between 6 and 72 hours after ingesting Salmonella. The infection can last four to seven days, depending on the severity. But, as soon as the first signs appear, the individual should consult a doctor so that the disease is diagnosed and treated correctly”, advises nutritionist Janaiara Moreira Sebold Berbel.
Ensure food safety
To prevent Salmonella and other bacteria from bringing unwanted problems during the summer holidays, Janaiara Moreira Sebold Berbel lists 5 practical tips that can ensure safer food consumption. Check!
1. Store food in the refrigerator
With the high temperatures of summerit is necessary to pay attention to food storage and try to always keep it refrigerated. When exposed to the environment, they can remain for up to two hours. If the temperature is above 32ºC, the maximum time to leave them without refrigeration is one hour.
2. Avoid raw or undercooked foods
Especially when going out or traveling, avoid foods that are not well cooked or served raw. Red meat, poultry, fish and seafood can contain dangerous microorganisms that can be transferred to other foods during preparation and storage.
3. Wash your hands often
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before preparing and consuming food, after using the bathroom and after handling raw foods. The use of 70% alcohol and wet wipes is also recommended. These simple precautions can prevent contamination by various bacteria, including Salmonella.
4. Choose packaged and sealed foods
Whenever possible, choose food which are in sealed packaging. This is another safety measure in relation to contamination, as the risk of them being contaminated during the handling process is much lower.
5. Consume drinking water
Make sure you consume clean water. If you are in a place with questionable water quality, use mineral water or filter the water before drinking it.
By Marlise Groth
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
