Food Safety and Food Delivery
Food delivery through corporations such as UberEats, Grubhub, etc. have rapidly become the preferred mode of eating out in America. As this practice is so common amongst American individuals, food safety should be practiced (as always) to prevent the spread of foodborne illnesses. The process of delivering food to the doorstep is much more complicated than just the delivery, and it can be made safer by following these simple yet practical food safety tips.
Before placing the order
Research the company and know their credentials. Feel free to call the customer service and ask about their food safety standards, and how well they’re upheld. This bit of research could prove to be vital for individuals with compromised immune systems, who are at a higher risk to catch food poisoning. This would include adults 65 and older, expectant women, children under the age of 5 and individuals on severe medications.
Inquire about the company’s past responses to customer’s food safety concerns, such as complaints about undercooked meats, or refrigerated products delivered at temperatures higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Plan ahead for a safe delivery. Be prepared with a safe, food-friendly location for when the meal is delivered, especially if there won’t be any one at home to receive the food.
When the food is delivered
Thoroughly examine the packaging encasing the delivered food. Be aware of stickers such as “Keep Refrigerated” and “Keep Frozen”, especially if the order included perishables such as meat or seafood. Refrigerate or freeze perishables as soon as possible, seeing as bacteria multiplies rapidly when the food is kept in the “danger zone” (between 40 degrees Fahrenheit and 140 degrees Fahrenheit) for more than two hours. Also, inspect the way in which the company keeps the perishables cold and/or hot, such as insulated packaging, dry ice, or frozen gel packs.
According to one national food poisoning lawyer, “there is always a risk, but following common sense guidelines can reduce the risk of food borne illness from food that s delivered to your home or office.”
By following these simple, precautionary tips, the average American can enjoy the ease of food delivery without concern of foodborne illnesses.
