Food poisoning may be more common during hot summer months, but in truth, it can happen anytime and anywhere—including your own home. Consuming contaminated food or drink often brings unpleasant consequences, but it is preventable with proper care and hygiene.
Understanding Food Poisoning
According to Mark Paul S. Castillo, MD, from Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), one of the country’s leading hospitals, food poisoning is difficult to detect at first because many contaminated dishes taste no different from safe food. Symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, headaches, and fever can appear anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours after consumption. Some viruses, like Hepatitis A, can even take days or weeks before signs show.
While most cases resolve within 24 to 48 hours and require only hydration and rest, severe cases may cause kidney failure, nerve or brain damage, and, in rare instances, death.
Prevention: The Key to Food Safety
MakatiMed emphasizes the importance of safe food handling at every stage—from preparation to storage.
PREP: Cleanliness Comes First
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling food.
- Use disposable gloves if you have wounds or rashes.
- Wash and dry utensils, chopping boards, and countertops before and after use.
- Rinse raw meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables properly.
- Replace kitchen sponges weekly to avoid bacterial buildup.
PLATE: Cook and Serve Safely
- Cook food at the recommended time and temperature.
- Keep hot food warm using chafing dishes and serve cold food in small, ready-to-eat portions.
- Avoid cross-contamination by assigning separate serving spoons and utensils.
- Never double-dip.
KEEP: Storing Food Correctly
- Place leftovers in clean, covered containers and refrigerate immediately.
- Consume leftovers within 3–4 days and reheat before eating.
- Discard food showing mold, unusual smells, or questionable appearance—better safe than sorry.
Food Safety Is a Daily Practice
Ensuring safe food handling is a habit that prevents illness and protects your family’s health. MakatiMed reminds everyone that with proper hygiene, preparation, and storage, foodborne illnesses are largely avoidable.
For more information, contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.8888 999 or email [email protected].
FAQs About Food Poisoning and Prevention
Q: What are the common symptoms of food poisoning?
A: Symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, headaches, and fever.
Q: How soon do symptoms appear after eating contaminated food?
A: They can appear within 30 minutes to 8 hours, while some viruses like Hepatitis A may take days or weeks.
Q: How can I prevent food poisoning at home?
A: Wash hands and utensils, separate raw and cooked food, cook thoroughly, store leftovers properly, and avoid cross-contamination.
Q: How long can leftovers be safely eaten?
A: Leftovers should be consumed within 3–4 days and reheated before serving.
