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2.

Precautionary measures against food-borne diseases

The Department of Health today (Saturday) called on members of the public to adopt proper food hygiene practices when having hot pots in winter.

In making the appeal, the Assistant Director of Health (Hygiene), Dr Mahommed Bin Ali, warned the general public of the possible food-borne diseases such as food poisoning and Hepatitis A.

"Staff of food establishments should always observe hygiene practices in preparing food for hot pots," Dr Ali said.

"Customers, on the other hand, should make sure that food items are thoroughly cooked before consumption."

Housewives should also observe good hygiene practices when preparing hot pots at home.

Dr Ali advised the public to observe the following precautionary measures:

For shellfish

(a) Use only wholesome and preferably live ones;

(b) Remove the dirt with a brush and rinse shellfish thoroughly in clean water;

(c) Discard the intestines and other dubious or inedible parts such as

shells;

(d) Cook thoroughly before consumption; and

(e) Keep under refrigeration if not for immediate consumption.

For vegetables

(a) Do not patronise illegal hawkers;

(b) Do not buy those with an obvious strange smell;

(c) Remove the outer leaves;