An increase in cases of food poisoning in recent weeks has prompted environmental health officials to remind the public of the importance of hygiene rules when barbecuing.
 
Ivan Bratty, Food Safety Manager with the Department of Food and Agriculture (DEFA), said: “The public is at greatest risk of food poisoning during summer, when barbecue season reaches its peak. Barbecues are an excellent way to make the most of the summer but the results can be disastrous if food isn’t cooked properly.”
 
Mr Chris Thomas MHK, who was recently given delegated authority for food safety and other areas of the Department’s Environment, Safety and Health Directorate, said: “The issuing practical advice helps to reduce the risk of unnecessary illness ensuring that everyone can enjoy barbecues and outdoor eating safely.”
 
When cooking outside the kitchen, it’s important to be mindful of normal food hygiene practices and the risk of cross-contamination. DEFA advises:
 
•         Wash hands thoroughly before preparing food, after touching raw meat and before eating.
•         Raw meats can contain harmful bacteria and should be separated from cooked and ready-to-eat food.
•         Barbecued food may look well-cooked when it isn't. Make sure burgers, sausages and chicken are properly cooked by cutting into the meat and checking that it is steaming hot all the way through, that none of it is pink and that any juices run clear. If barbecuing for lots of people, it’s a good idea to cook the meat or poultry in the oven and then finish it off on the barbecue for flavour.
 
Mr Bratty said: “It is not surprising that we see a peak in food-related illness at this time of year. Many harmful bacteria grow in warmer conditions, turning our food into a potential health hazard.
 
“Campylobacter, salmonella and E.coli are the main food poisoning bugs and these cause severe stomach cramps, sickness and diarrhoea. A little extra hygiene care goes a long way to making sure that barbecues can be safe, fun and enjoyable for all.”
 
DEFA offers free food safety advice to those barbecuing for a large or public event. Contact Mr Bratty on 685889 or email ivan.bratty@gov.im.