Rely on our Alabama Liability Insurance for your food business!
2/9/2012 9:46:36 AM
Alabama business owners that serve cooked food to the public need Alabama liability insurance to protect their business financially, in case of lawsuits as a result of injury caused by their products. With thousands of reported cases of food-borne illnesses occurring each year, it is essential to handle food items correctly. This includes:
• Cleanliness and hygiene: preparation areas should be kept meticulously clean and food handlers need to practice hygiene and regular hand-washing with soap and warm water.
• Separation of raw meat: It’s important that raw meat products are kept apart from contact with other foods in the fridge such as cooked meat or fruits and vegetables. Raw meats should also have their own preparation areas or chopping boards to prevent cross-contamination.
• Proper cooking: this can be tested with a meat thermometer, which should be inserted into the thickest part of the meat. Guidelines include: Fish, steaks and roasts - 145°F; Ground meats, pork and eggs - 160°F; Poultry dishes - 165°F.
• Temperatures: hot foods should be maintained at or above 140°F and cold foods below 40°F to prevent bacterial growth.
• Careful defrosting: this should be done in the fridge, microwave or with cold water, but not at room temperature or with hot water.
These food handling guidelines for businesses should also be followed in the home. By doing so, you help avoid causing illness to yourself or others. You may also help avoid needing to claim on your Alabama liability insurance policy as a result of a lawsuit!
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