How to avoid food poisoning

It is enough that only one egg is in poor condition so that the mayonnaise becomes a dangerous weapon on the table. Salmonella or anisakis are some of the culprits of food poisoning among children, but they are not the only ones. Learn to exercise caution when handling food, especially in the hottest season.

Why food poisoning occurs in children

The culprits that a food is not in good condition are bacteria, toxins, parasites or viruses. Any of them can turn a succulent delicacy into a disease vehicle, although in most cases of food poisoning the main cause is a common bacterium. It can be for example that an animal has developed these bacteria (present in its own intestine) , or that the water we ingest has been contaminated, or that a food has not been correctly handled or the cooling chain has been skipped for its conservation. Or perhaps hygiene was not monitored when preparing a dish.

Symptoms and treatment of childhood food poisoning

The most common symptoms of food poisoning in children are nausea, stomach pain, vomiting (colic), diarrhea, sweating and paleness of the skin, fever, headache and weakness. They begin to manifest themselves after 2 hours after eating the food in poor condition.

If the poisoning is mild, it will subside by itself only little by little. It is necessary to ensure that the child is properly hydrated and to stop vomiting and diarrhea. In the case that persists, it is necessary to consult the pediatrician. If the poisoning is severe or the child is at risk of dehydration, you should go immediately to the emergency room of the nearest hospital.

How to avoid food poisoning in children

Food poisoning can be avoided with small gestures. Here are some tips and tricks:

• Before handling a food, wash your hands very well

• Wash the cutlery and utensils that we are going to use to prepare the food and appliances such as the blender, where there may be food remains

• The rags and cloths of the kitchen carry more bacteria than those found in the bathroom. They must be cleaned frequently. It is better to use disposable paper to clean your hands when cooking

• Check that the temperature of the freezer and refrigerator are correct

• Never refreeze food once defrosted

• Extreme caution with dairy foods and eggs in hot weather and monitor their expiration date

• Clean the eggshell thoroughly and dry it before use and the skin of the fruit before eating it

• Freeze the fish before preparing it. This way you will avoid the annoying surprise of the anisakis