Processing and Preparation Tips - Meat, Marine Food and Poultry 

The SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for causing COVID-19 is believed to have originated from a wet market in Wuhan, China; leading to the misconception that non-vegetarian food is unfit for consumption. 

No food is harmful so long as utmost hygiene and care is taken in handling it. Here’s sharing how –

• Ensure purchase of eggs, poultry, fish etc. from a trusted local vendor
• Store raw meat separately from other perishable foods in the refrigerator to avoid harmful microbes from raw foods spreading to cooked foods
• Before handling or eating food wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, as a part of general food safety
• Never consume raw or undercooked meat products
• Keep the surrounding area as well as the area where non-vegetarian food is being prepared clean 
• Thaw frozen products in advance 
• Wash the meat thoroughly and cook at high temperatures, as this facilitates killing of harmful germs
• Use separate items like cutting boards, dishes, knives and different preparation area for raw meats, poultry and marine products to minimize cross-contamination
• Electric grinding equipment and even chopping, cutting produce heat; so non-vegetarian products must either be immediately cooked or placed in temperatures that do not allow micro-organisms to grow
• Maintain properly covered dustbins for disposal of those parts of the food that are not consumed or which have fallen on the ground during preparation 
• Wash used surfaces with antibacterial cleaning agent, rinse properly with water and sanitise surfaces post preparation of raw meat, fish or poultry

A few simple steps can allow you to indulge in your favourite food during such turbulent times too!