Monsoons bring relief from the heat but also increase the chances of certain diseases. Eating unsafe food during the rainy season can lead to foodborne illnesses like dysentery and diarrhea, which can cause symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, fever and vomiting. According to the Cleveland Clinic, unhealthy eating habits and contamination of water and food can also lead to jaundice, which can cause bothersome symptoms like fever, chills, abdominal pain, flu-like symptoms, fatigue, confusion, itchy skin and weight loss. To stay healthy during monsoons, it is important to follow safe and hygienic food practices.
In a recent video on Instagram, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) shared some simple and effective precautions to follow during monsoon, which can “save us from falling sick.”
Also read: Is food getting spoiled in monsoon? Here are some easy tips to keep moisture away
Here are 9 food safety tips shared by FSSAI for monsoon:
1. Wash all food items purchased from the market thoroughly before cooking.
2. FSSAI advises, “Keep yourself and your surroundings clean.” Don’t forget to wash your hands with soap and water before cooking and eating.
3. Use only clean water for cooking. Contamination in unfiltered or tap water can be hazardous to your health.
4. Always eat freshly cooked food and cook only as much as you need. Avoid cooking extra food for the rest of the week, especially during monsoons, as chances of spoilage and foodborne illnesses are high.
5. To avoid the growth of microorganisms, store leftover food in the refrigerator as soon as it cools down.
6. When eating leftover food, reheat it thoroughly before eating. Boil sauces, soups and gravies when reheating them.
7. Always keep perishable items like milk and curd in the refrigerator.
8. Use fresh and local food products. Fresh food is more nutrient-rich.
9. Include black pepper, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander and turmeric in your diet. These help boost your immunity and prevent monsoon illnesses. Click here for monsoon-specific kadha recipes.
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Also read: Immunity-boosting drinks: 5 lemon elixirs to keep you healthy this monsoon
Follow these healthy eating practices to keep yourself and your family fit and healthy during monsoon.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides general information only. It is not a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
