Your snacks may be delicious, but are they safe?

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According to the World Health Organization, food-borne diseases affect an estimated 600 million people annually, resulting in 420,000 deaths globally.

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The ConversationThe Conversation
URL: 
https://theconversation.com/your-snacks-may-be-delicious-but-are-they-safe-206124https://theconversation.com/your-snacks-may-be-delicious-but-are-they-safe-206124
Retrieved on: 
Sunday, June 4, 2023
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Tags: 
Population growth, Food, Norovirus, Kidney failure, Snack, Food safety, Awareness, Suya, Listeria, Kilishi, World, Meal, Escherichia coli, Temperature, Vegetable, Diarrhea, Supermarket, Paralysis, Consumer, Death, Ill, Foodborne illness, Freezing, Salmonella, Sanitation, Cholera, Risk, Water, Parasitism, Nausea, Growth, Bacteria, Lassa fever, Meat, Safety, Virus, Allergen, Product, World Health Organization, Dietary supplement, Vaccine, Agriculture, Baking, Fast food, Food preservation
Geotags: 
NIGERIA
Summary
Key Points: 
  • According to the World Health Organization, food-borne diseases affect an estimated 600 million people annually, resulting in 420,000 deaths globally.
  • For most developing countries, it can be difficult to practise food safety when clean water and sanitation aren’t available.
  • It depends on various factors like where the ingredients come from, and how snacks are prepared and stored.
  • By following the tips I offer here, you can enjoy your snacks and reduce the risk of foodborne diseases.

Managing the risks

    • Raw materials, including fruits, vegetables and animal products, can be contaminated with harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
    • To reduce the risk of contamination, it is important to buy ingredients from trusted suppliers who have good hygiene practices.
    • When buying fresh produce, look for signs of spoilage, such as mould, discolouration and foul odours.
    • Food processing, such as canning and freezing, can kill harmful microorganisms and extend the shelf life of products.

Symptoms of food-borne diseases

    • Knowing the most common types of foodborne illnesses and their symptoms is very important.
    • Symptoms of food-borne illness can range from mild, such as nausea and diarrhoea, to severe, such as kidney failure and paralysis – the inability to move some or all parts of your body.
    • If you experience or observe any symptoms of food-borne illness after eating a snack, seek medical attention immediately.
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