The Error of Water Local Preparation No. 1 which could cause food poisoning

If you are used to deciding in a watermelon without a second reflection, you could put yourself more at risk of food poisoning. Making an additional step to wash the outside of your watermelon first could avoid uncomfortable symptoms later.

Why should you wash your watermelon

When you cut a watermelon, your knife can transport bacteria from the crust surface to the fruit when it cuts off.

So, if there are bacteria outside, like Salmonella or E. coli, the knife can wear it inside. Once this happens, bacteria can multiply, especially if the cut fruit is left for too long or not properly.

The watermelon can collect bacteria with several points along the way, from the field, where it grows on the floor, your grocery cart and your kitchen counter. As it is cultivated on the ground, it can come into contact with dirt, water runoff or even animal excrement.

From there, he can pick up bacteria during harvesting, handling, shipping or even if it is sitting in your grocery cart or on a cash belt. It could also be managed by many hands in grocery stores. This is why give him a good rinsing before cutting him into account.

How to prepare your watermelon safely

Following a few simple steps when handling and cutting the watermelon can help reduce the risk of food poisoning. These food safety habits are good to follow for most fruits and vegetables:

• Wash your hands Before and after handling products.
• Rinse the set outside the watermelon under running water. Because the bark is thick and firm, you can rub it gently with a clean product brush, if you have one.
• Dry the exterior with a clean towel or a paper towel before slicing. This can help reduce humidity on which bacteria could prosper.
• Use a clean knife and a cutting board To avoid cross -contamination of other foods or surfaces.

Even if the watermelon seems enough at low risk, it is always a raw fruit and raw foods can sometimes transport germs. These germs are not killed because the fruit is not cooked.

Tips for safe storage

Once the watermelon has been cut, it must be stored in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Like many fresh foods, watermelon can quickly become dangerous if it is at room temperature for too long. The cut watermelon remains cool in the refrigerator for about three to five days.

Here are some useful storage tips:

• Refrigerate the cut watermelon in two hours. Take it cool even earlier if it’s a hot day or if you’re outside.
• Keep your refrigerator at 40 ° F or below. This helps slow bacterial growth and maintaining cooler products longer.
• Keep the watermelon in a sealed container or bag. This helps to prevent it from drying and protects it against the collection of odors or bacteria against other foods.
• Keep your refrigerator clean. Quickly wipe the spills, especially from raw meat – to avoid cross contamination.
• If in doubt, throw it away. If your watermelon looks pasty, smells or makes a deep red, it is best not to risk it.