Final answer:
To prevent botulism, use proper canning procedures, boil home-canned foods for 10 minutes before eating, and practice good hygiene such as handwashing and rinsing produce. Always cook food to a safe internal temperature.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best way to prevent botulism in food handling includes several important steps. First, always use proper sterilization and canning procedures when preserving food at home. It's crucial that low-acid foods like meats and vegetables reach a minimum temperature of 116 °C (240 °F), which requires a pressure canner to achieve, as it is well above the boiling point of water. In addition to proper canning, boiling home-canned foods for about 10 minutes before consumption can denature any botulinum toxin they might contain.
Moreover, regular handwashing is essential before and after handling food to prevent the spread of foodborne diseases. You should also rotate food in your pantry and avoid consuming expired goods. Rinse fresh produce before consumption, even if you do not plan to eat the outer skin, and cook food to a minimum internal temperature of 74 degrees C (165 degrees F) to ensure any bacteria present are killed.