As we age, our bodies don’t work as well as they used to. The changes in our organs and body systems make us more vulnerable to foodborne illness and food poisoning. So, it’s important to take food safety for seniors seriously.
Food Safety for Seniors
Our stomach and intestinal tract can hold onto foods for longer time than it should. The liver and kidneys can’t get rid of toxins as easy as it used to.
By 65, many people have been diagnosed with one or more chronic conditions. This can include diabetes, arthritis, cancer, or cardiovascular disease.
They also will be at taking at least one medication. The side effects of some medications can weaken the immune system, which can increase the chance to get food poisoning.
How to Avoid Food Poisoning
You need to be careful with the preparation, cooking, and eating of food.
When you cook at home be aware of some foods that can contain bad bacteria. Food like uncooked fresh fruits and vegetables are one example.
Another is animal products. This can include raw milk, soft cheeses made with raw milk, raw or undercooked eggs, raw meat, raw poultry, raw fish, raw shellfish and their juices, lunch meat, and deli type salads.
When you prep food, it can look fine, but be filled with things that are bad for you. Make sure to never taste food to see if it’s safe to eat.
Make sure to clean, separate, cook, and chill the food to make sure it’s safe.
Eating out doesn’t allow you as much control as prepping food at home can. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about how your food was prepped if you are unsure of it’s safety.
You can also let them know you don’t want any food that has raw meat, poultry, seafood, sprouts, or eggs.
You can read more specific information here.