Health experts are encouraging Nigerians to practise safe food handling at home, in restaurants, and at food businesses, warning that poor food hygiene can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses and lead to serious health complications.
According to medical professionals, foodborne illnesses occur when people consume food or drinks contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. These illnesses can affect anyone, but young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing severe complications.
Doctors explain that food contamination can occur at any stage, from production and transportation to preparation and storage. Improper hand hygiene, using contaminated water, undercooking food, and storing food at unsafe temperatures are among the most common causes of foodborne diseases.
Health experts advise the public to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and clean running water before handling food, after using the toilet, after touching raw meat or poultry, and after handling waste. Proper handwashing helps prevent harmful microorganisms from contaminating food during preparation.
Medical professionals recommend washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or cooking them. They also advise separating raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs from ready-to-eat foods to prevent cross-contamination. Using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods can further reduce the risk of spreading harmful bacteria.
Doctors stress the importance of cooking food thoroughly to safe temperatures, especially meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs. Proper cooking destroys most harmful microorganisms that can cause illness. Leftover food should also be reheated thoroughly before consumption.
Experts encourage proper food storage by refrigerating perishable foods promptly and avoiding leaving cooked food at room temperature for extended periods. Foods that have an unusual smell, appearance, or taste should be discarded rather than consumed.
Health professionals also recommend using clean, safe water for drinking, cooking, and washing food. In areas where water safety is uncertain, boiling or appropriately treating water before use can help reduce the risk of foodborne infections.
Doctors caution against purchasing food from unhygienic environments or consuming foods that have expired or have damaged packaging. Consumers should always check expiry dates and ensure packaged foods are properly sealed before purchase.
Medical professionals advise individuals to seek medical attention if they develop severe vomiting, persistent diarrhoea, bloody stools, high fever, signs of dehydration, or symptoms that do not improve after a short period. Early treatment can help prevent serious complications, particularly in vulnerable groups.
Medical experts conclude that practising safe food handling is one of the most effective ways to prevent foodborne illnesses. They encourage Nigerians to maintain high standards of food hygiene at home and in public settings, noting that simple preventive measures can protect individuals, families, and communities from avoidable diseases.
