For RibbonsXP’s Experiences that include food preparation,
Hosts are required to follow guidelines based on the Pan
American Health Organization’s 5 Keys to Safer Food Program.
Keep things clean
While most microorganisms don’t cause disease, dangerous
microorganisms are widely found in soil, water, animals,
and people. These can be carried on hands, cleaning
cloths, utensils, and especially cutting boards.
-
Wash your hands before handling food and often during
food preparation
-
Wash your hands after going to the toilet
-
Wash and sanitize all surfaces and equipment used for
food preparation
-
Protect kitchen areas and food from insects, pests, and
other animals
Separate raw and cooked foods
Raw food, especially meat, poultry, and seafood can also
contain dangerous microorganisms that may be transferred
onto other foods during food preparation and storage.
-
Separate raw meat, poultry, and seafood from other foods
-
Use separate equipment and utensils, such as knives and
cutting boards, for handling raw foods
-
Store raw and prepared foods in separate food containers
to avoid contact between them
Dangerous sports: Hosts should not
offer Experiences involving extreme heights or caves
(e.g. bungee, skydiving, heli-skiing, cave diving),
certain ocean activities (e.g. free diving,
kiteboarding, shark diving), or certain ice or mountain
activities (e.g. canyoning, ice climbing, free
climbing).
Cook food thoroughly
Cooking food to a temperature of 158℉/70℃ can kill almost
all dangerous microorganisms and ensure it’s safe for
consumption.
-
Cook food thoroughly, especially meat, poultry, eggs,
and seafood
-
Bring foods like soups and stews to boiling to make sure
they have reached 158℉/70℃
-
Reheat cooked food thoroughly
Foods that require special attention include minced meats,
rolled roasts, large joints of meat, and whole poultry.
Keep food at safe temperatures
Microorganisms can multiply very quickly if food is stored
at room temperatures. By holding at temperatures below
41℉/5℃ or above 140℉/60℃, the growth of microorganisms is
slowed down or stopped.
-
Don’t leave cooked food at room temperature for more
than two hours
-
Refrigerate all cooked and perishable food promptly
(preferably below 41℉/5℃)
-
Keep cooked food above 140℉/60℃ prior to serving
-
Don’t store food too long, even in the refrigerator
-
Don’t thaw frozen food at room temperature
-
Be aware that some dangerous microorganisms still grow
below 41℉/5℃
Use safe water and quality raw ingredients
Raw ingredients as well as water and ice may be
contaminated with dangerous microorganisms and chemicals.
In addition, toxic chemicals may be formed in damaged and
moldy foods. Carefully selecting ingredients, and washing
and peeling foods, may reduce risk.
-
Use safe water or treat it to make it safe
- Select fresh foods
-
Choose foods processed for safety, such as pasteurized
milk
-
Wash fruits and vegetables, especially if eaten raw
-
Don’t use food beyond its expiration date