Final answer:
To minimize the risk of foodborne illness, practice regular handwashing, rotate and check food expiry in your pantry, and cook food to proper temperatures using a food thermometer. Refrigerating cooked food promptly and washing produce are also key steps. These actions help maintain digestive system health and prevent illness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Minimizing Risk of Foodborne Illness
To minimize your risk of getting a foodborne illness, you can practice several food safety measures. First, regular handwashing is crucial; wash your hands before and after handling food, as well as before eating. Second, make sure you rotate food in your pantry, using older items first and checking expiration dates, while storing perishable items properly. Finally, proper cooking temperatures are essential; use a food thermometer to ensure your food reaches at least 74 degrees C (165 degrees F) to kill harmful bacteria.
Other important practices include washing fresh produce before consumption and refrigerating cooked food promptly after a meal to slow down bacterial growth. By maintaining these habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne diseases and keep your digestive system healthy.