when we think of Food safety and hygieneMost of them focus on the quality of the product, that it is fresh and in the best conditions for consumption, as well as on the cleanliness of the kitchen utensils and the work table. But more often than not, it escapes us that the materials these utensils are made from can pose a health hazard.
First of all, the famous food technologist and promoter Mario Sanchez recently warned on his Tik Tok channel about the dangers of using in the kitchen wooden items. The classic cutting board, spatula or spatula made of this material has always been present in kitchens, but as Sanchez explains, they can pose a health risk because they can easily become reservoirs for dangerous bacteria.
reason for this danger porosity made of wood, which can absorb all kinds of juices and hard-to-remove dirt, so the Microorganisms Find an ideal place to live. Sanchez explains that the right and careful approach greatly reduces the risk, and that in general nothing should happen. But you need to be very meticulous in cleaning, drying and maintenance.
Wooden utensils should only be washed by hand, because the high temperatures of the dishwasher and the humidity expand them and accelerate their deterioration. If cracks, cracks or bulges are found, it is better to change it to a new one.
Already at the time of purchase, it is better choose other materials, Like PVC or polypropylene panels, which are more resistant and easier to maintain. In addition, you can purchase several colors so that Avoid cross contamination Using one home for a specific product. The basics are to use two, one for foods that will be cooked and one for foods that will be eaten raw. From here, one for meat, another for fish, and a third for vegetables… each one in its own color.
In the case of cutlery, you can buy those made of plastic or silicone, which are preferred by metal because the probability of damaging the bottoms of metal pots and pans is reduced.
Pots, pans and casseroles
As for kitchen tools, The use itself wears them down, depending on the material. And it is that heat and acids can damage some boxes and cause metallic particles to mix with the food.
If you still have non-stick pans and utensils from TeflonIt is best to get rid of them especially if they are scratched or before 2020 because they are associated with endocrine problems and the risk of cancer. If you like this system, look for the ones with a “PFOAS-free” notice. Those made of aluminum, copper, or clay that contain some lead should also be discontinued. Those who Aluminium They are mild and make good use of heat, but the same element is easily transferred into food, which in high concentrations can cause nerve cell damage. The same thing happens with those in copperBut the poisoning of the latter causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
The most suitable materials at this time are ceramics, titanium, iron and glass.
the Ceramic It came as a replacement for Teflon, so it’s not uncommon to find ceramic-coated aluminum. Of course, you have to make sure that they are free of heavy metals. Classic pans and casseroles from iron It is still one of the most indicated, although it has the disadvantage of weight, and opts for those that are not enamelled, as such coating is easy to peel off. Their maintenance includes rubbing them with oil once they are clean and dry. Glass batteries are suitable for cooking on glass-ceramics, as they are quite stable and do not deform as happens with some metal batteries.
Signs that the family needs to change
In case it wasn’t clear if you should refurbish your kitchen utensils, here are some clues:
- pots and pans. Generally it is recommended to renew it every one and a half or two years. Accept if there are bulges, rust, bumps, or food sticking frequently.
- Wooden boards and utensils. If they are Cracked, cracked, swollen, badly scratched, or has dark or green spots (mold or mildew).
- Silicone or plastic spatulas and spatulas. If it shows signs of heat damage, microorganisms can build up in the grooves and irregularities.
- Tupperware If it is plastic, food cannot be heated in it. Throw it away if it is badly scratched or discolored. Replace it with a glass one
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