Most Common Types of Food Contamination and How to avoid them
Fruits and vegetables are an integral part of our diet. However, over the years, the use of pesticides and insecticides have increased drastically, which also raises the risk of a number of health problems. Apart from pesticides, there are a number of other scenarios that may lead to food contamination. Though we are extra cautious when it comes to handling food items, rinsing them with plain water doesn’t serve the purpose. Any of us are not aware that food contamination is divided into four categories, all of which may lead to serious health problems. As a result, it is necessary to ditch the age-old procedures of washing fruits and vegetables and bring home a vegetable and fruit cleaner.
This advanced appliance uses ozone disinfection technology to remove pesticides and contaminants from food items. If you are not aware of the different types of contaminants, we are here to help.
What is Food Contamination?
Food contamination is a commonly used term. However, only a few people are aware of the exact reasons for food contamination and its effects on your health. When food items are not handled or cooked safely, the disease-causing organisms such as bacteria, parasites, and viruses result in food contamination. The disease-causing parasites produce toxins that may also lead to food intoxication. In addition, the presence of pesticides, certain cleaning compounds, contaminate the food.
- Improper storing, handling and preparing food
- Unhygienic hands and fingernails
- Poor personal hygiene habits
- Improperly cleaned or sanitized utensils
- Contamination by flies, cockroaches, insects, and pests
Different Types of Food Contamination
There are a number of reasons that can lead to food contamination. However, food contamination falls under four different categories which are:
- Biological
- Chemical
- Physical
- Cross- contamination.
Who is at a Higher Risk of Food Poisoning?
Though anyone can get food poisoning, some age groups are at a higher risk. The following age groups are at a higher risk of food poisoning.
1. Kids who are Younger than 5 Years
Kids who are less than 5 years have a weak immune system and their body’s ability to fight infections is less. Food poisoning can be very dangerous for children as it leads to dehydration and diarrhea. Children less than 5 years are three times more likely to be hospitalized by food poisoning.
2. Pregnant Women
Expectant mothers are at more vulnerable to certain germs as compared to others. This is the reason why pregnant women are 10 times more vulnerable to food poisoning than other people.
3. Elderly People
Adults who are more than 65 years of age are at a higher risk of food contamination as their immune systems are weak. Their organs don’t recognize and get rid of harmful germs present in food items, making them vulnerable to food poisoning.
4. People with Weak Immune System
People suffering from diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease or liver disease are not in the condition to fight germs and illnesses. This is the reason why they are at a higher risk of suffering from food poisoning.