There are many reasons to start an effective meal preparation routine! If you’re looking to be healthier and reduce your food intake, meal prep can assist you in sticking to your goals. Making your meal plans ahead of time can make it simpler to shop and adhere to a diet plan. Once you’ve got the hang of meal preparation, it is an excellent time saver.
One aspect is often overlooked in the process of meal prep, and that’s food safety. It’s true that when you’re making the time and effort to cook meals for the coming days, it’s important to make sure that you’re doing it correctly. This is why we’ve put together a checklist of the top five meal preparation food safety rules.
Food safety guidelines for meal prep
If you’re doing the work required to prepare meals ahead of time, these guidelines can keep you on the right track.
Rule 1. Clean your environment
Before you begin the meal preparation, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly and dry them well. We’re sure that many of you do this already, but it’s vital to ensure your hands are thoroughly cleaned before you begin handling food ingredients.
Keep the kitchen surfaces and kitchen utensils clean when cooking food. Make sure to use separate knives and chopping boards to prepare raw meats to prevent cross-contamination from cooked food. You don’t want to accidentally spill fluid from a raw chicken into your salad!
Rule 2. Cleanse fresh products thoroughly
Wash fruits, vegetables, and other herbs in running water prior to preparation. It’s simple, but you’ll be amazed at how many people neglect this step! The washing process helps get rid of any microorganisms. It can also aid fresh food to last longer.
Even produce that is pre-washed, like the lettuce bags you can find at the supermarket, should be rinsed prior to preparing your meals.
Rule 3. Make sure your meals are cooked thoroughly
There are several articles where people recommend only cooking your meat partially while preparing it. Please don’t do it! Don’t put yourself at risk of exposure to bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
Think about adding a food thermometer to your kitchen meal prep equipment — they could aid in reducing the risk of confusion regarding food safety, particularly regarding meat that is raw.
Rule 4. Keep your food items properly stored
We suggest organizing your fridge prior to beginning meal prep so that you can fit in all the containers with your meals. You should leave a little space for air to circulate through the refrigerator to maintain the temperature.
This is also true when you are taking your meals to work. Store the container inside an airtight bag for your commute, and then put it in the refrigerator once you arrive.
Label the containers with the meals and the date prior to placing them in the fridge. Make sure to eat the meals within three to four days.
Rule 5. Cook food correctly
While reheating meals, they must reach a temperature of at least 167 degrees F. Bacteria can thrive if the food isn’t heated enough, so ensure the food you’ve reheated is bubbling!