Important Warnings from an Expert Against Food Safety and Infection Risks in Summer

With the rising temperatures in the summer months, foodborne infection risks are increasing. Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Aslı Özer explained the correct cleaning methods, warning about raw vegetables and fruits, sliced products sold in the open, iced drinks, and hygiene rules in the kitchen.

Common Misconceptions in Cleaning Greens

Lettuce and other leafy vegetables can become contaminated with microorganisms during the soil, irrigation water, and transportation stages. Before consuming these vegetables, the leaves should be separated one by one and washed thoroughly under clean running water.

The use of chemical substances such as soap, detergent, or bleach while cleaning vegetables and fruits is strictly not recommended. The main purpose of the washing process is to reduce the microbial load on the surface of the food and the risk of infection.

Fruits with Rinds Should Be Washed Before Cutting

Fruits with inedible rinds, such as watermelon and melon, also need to be washed before being cut. In fruits cut without washing, microorganisms on the rind can be transferred to the edible inner part via the knife.

Since the protective rind barrier of sliced fruits is removed, microorganisms can multiply rapidly in warm environments. For this reason, especially in the summer months, caution should be exercised regarding sliced fruits left out in the open, and these products should be kept cold.

Attention to Ice and Cross-Contamination Risks

Since freezing water does not make it sterile, the safety of ice depends on the quality of the water from which it is produced. In addition, using cutting boards and knives used for raw meat at home in the preparation of salads or fruits without cleaning them leads to cross-contamination.

Infection Symptoms and Risk Groups

Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and fluid loss may occur as a result of consuming contaminated food. This condition can be much more severe, especially in children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.