Food recalls have people nervous about Thanksgiving meal safety, and a new survey shows a sharp increase in that concern. Nearly 3 out of 5 U.S. adults are more worried about foodborne illnesses this year than in previous years, according to a national poll from Orlando Health.
Diarrhea-causing cyclospora has been found in iceberg lettuce, while jalapenos, frozen blueberries and broccoli have tested positive for salmonella. Officials note that foodborne illnesses sicken 48 million people every year, causing 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths.
Dr. Daniel Egan, an infectious disease physician with Orlando Health Medical Group, says the bacteria causing these illnesses are not new. “If you’re more aware of it, you’re also going to take more steps to prevent those kind of infections,” Dr. Egan said in a news release.
Hosts preparing large meals for the holiday may be tempted to cut corners to save time. Dr. Egan points out that this efficiency can increase the risk of infection, making careful preparation essential for a safe feast.
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Dr. Egan’s tips include washing hands frequently between kitchen tasks, especially when switching from handling raw meat or poultry to chopping vegetables or preparing stuffing. He advises never washing or rinsing raw poultry, as water splashing off the bird can splatter bacteria onto surrounding countertops, plates and utensils.
Separate cutting boards, tools, utensils and containers should be used for raw meat and poultry. Raw meat and poultry should be kept covered and stored on a separate shelf from produce. Use a food thermometer to check internal temperature for poultry and meat.
Rinse all produce and leafy greens, even if they are labeled as “pre-washed.” Limit the amount of time food sits out, aiming for one or two hours maximum before packing and refrigerating leftovers.
Symptoms of food poisoning can include vomiting, nausea, cramps, diarrhea and fever, Dr. Egan said. These can crop up anywhere from six hours to several days after exposure to foodborne bacteria. Mild cases that clear within a day can usually be managed at home. Egan said people should go to a doctor if their symptoms get worse or persist.
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