The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that foodborne and waterborne diarrhoeal diseases kill an estimated 2.2 million people annually, most of whom are children. Food ingredients often come from multiple countries, with each item having travelled thousands of kilometres. Contamination at one end of the food chain can affect people on the other side of the world.
Hassan Berjawi, a Dubai resident, said: “Food safety cannot be guaranteed. However, we try our best to provide the best kind of food, especially when it comes to our children. We need to be educated about the benefits and disadvantages of different food items as we need our children to grow up healthy.”
Amera Varghese, dietitian at Mediclinic Welcare Hospital in Dubai, shared tips on how to ensure food safety.
1. Store leftovers carefully.
One of the most common causes of foodborne illness is improper cooling of cooked foods. Leftovers must be put in shallow containers and refrigerated within two hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly, on food left out at room temperature for more than two hours. Cook food thoroughly and then keep it at a temperature that is either warmer than 60 degrees Celsius or cooler than five degrees Celsius; these temperatures prevent the growth of bacteria. Leftovers should be reheated to at least 74 degrees Celsius before serving.
2. Always check the expiry date.
“Expiration date” refers to the last date a food should be consumed. It is till when the food maintains its microbiological and physical stability and the nutrient content declared on the label. After the expiry date has lapsed, food may smell or taste fine, but can be dangerous.
3. Keep track of allergies.
If you see that your child is developing rashes, stomach ache, cramps or nausea after eating certain foods, he or she may have allergies. The most common allergies in children are peanuts, other nuts, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, soy and wheat. Provide written instructions to your child’s school regarding any allergies and discuss your child’s access to medication. Maintain a diary to keep track of what symptoms your child experiences and what you think causes them.
4. Special care for children with diabetes.
Diabetes management planning is there to help a child to manage the condition, and stay healthy and active. It also helps to achieve blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible, and correct dosage also prevents fluctuations in glucose levels.
5. Look out for eating disorders.
Eating disorders are serious and destructive. It’s important to understand the treatment options. Get children evaluated by a health professional at the first sign. Even though eating disorders can be challenging to treat, proper treatment can be effective.
