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Are you planning to celebrate World Health Day on April 7? This year's theme is food safety, and it matters: two million people die each year from consuming unsafe food, and more than 200 diseases can spread through food contaminated by bacteria, parasites, viruses, or chemicals.
Follow five practical tips at work that help keep food safe and employees healthy year‑round.
For workplace-focused guidance, see World Health Day 2023: Food Safety and Workplace Hazards.
1. Promote Cleanliness
Nobody wants to clean the break room, but cleanliness is the first step in food safety. Make sure someone takes responsibility for regular cleaning tasks.
Cleaning tasks
- Disinfect counters and tables daily.
- Wash and dry dishes after use.
- Clean the refrigerator weekly.
While promoting break room cleanliness, remember to wash your hands before and after you eat.
2. Separate Raw and Cooked Foods
Whether you bring or buy meals, keep raw and cooked foods separate. Use designated cutting boards, utensils, and storage containers so cooked items won't be contaminated by raw proteins or produce.
3. Cook Food Thoroughly
Heat foods properly before eating. Bring soups and stews to a full boil, and heat meats and poultry to the recommended internal temperature to reduce risk from bacteria and parasites.
4. Keep Food at Safe Temperatures
Cooked foods that sit at room temperature for longer than two hours can become unsafe. Eat hot foods promptly and refrigerate cooked and perishable items right away to maintain safe temperatures.
5. Use Safe Water and Raw Materials
Food safety depends on safe ingredients. Prepare drinks with potable water, wash fruits and vegetables before eating, and discard expired items to reduce risk.
These five steps help you and your coworkers stay healthy during lunch breaks and beyond. For broader workplace safety and ethics guidance, see April Safety & Ethics: Food Safety, Business Security, Construction Hazards, and Cybersecurity.
If you need help with insurance-related questions, ask an agent who can review your workplace coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can cooked food sit at room temperature?
Cooked perishable food should generally not sit at room temperature for more than two hours; refrigerate it promptly to reduce bacterial growth.
What internal temperature should I use to ensure poultry is safe?
Poultry and many reheated dishes are commonly recommended to reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F to reduce harmful bacteria.
How often should workplace refrigerators be cleaned?
Clean workplace refrigerators at least weekly and discard expired or questionable items to prevent cross-contamination and odors.