Monsoon 2024: Essential Foods to Wash To Keep Foodborne Illnesses At Bay

Monsoon season offers a welcome break from the summer heat, but it also brings an increased risk of foodborne illnesses. The high humidity and fluctuating temperatures create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungi, making rigorous food safety practices more important than ever.

Why should these food items during monsoon season?

During the ongoing season, the importance of washing foods thoroughly elevates. The high humidity accelerates spoilage, especially in foods with high water content. This environment promotes microbial growth, which can compromise the food’s safety and lead to infections and other health issues. 

The processed foods are not immune to these risks. For canned foods, inspect for any damage or compromised seals. Moisture entering damaged cans can cause spoilage. Always check expiration dates and follow storage instructions, as humidity can break down packaging and increase contamination risk.

To protect your health this monsoon, thoroughly wash these foods before consumption:

Fruits and vegetables: Wash all produce, including those with edible skins like apples and leafy greens, as well as fruits like melons and oranges that are eaten without their outer layer.

Eggs: Clean eggs to remove any dirt or bacteria from the shell.

Meat and poultry: Rinse under cold water to eliminate debris. Ensure to cook meat and poultry to the recommended internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria.

Seafood: Wash fish, shellfish, and squid thoroughly to remove dirt and sand.

Nuts and seeds: Rinse these to eliminate impurities and pesticides.