Safe Food Handling Practice

 In doing so, foods can be prepared with care and provided to the public in a healthy way. Individuals can receive a food handlers card Texas has to offer after showing competency in food handling. The certification is given after taking and passing safety coursework.

The food handlers card Texas applicant must be able to handle food safely during a variety of stages. Foods are handled correctly during pre-cooking, cooking, and during. Proper handling of foods includes the following:

·         foods must be obtained from approved sources

·         correct food temperatures must be maintained

·          foods should stay contaminate free

When working with foods, the handler should wash their hands frequently during the preparation process. Always wash hands when handling meat products. It is necessary to ensure that raw meat juices do not contaminate other foods.

When cutting and preparing raw meats, it is important to wash hands, cutting boards, utensils and work surfaces with hot, soapy water. It is recommended to use separate cutting boards for meats and non-meat foods. Sanitizing cutting boards can be done by mixing a solution of one teaspoon of chlorine bleach with one quarter of water.

When marinating meats, it is recommended to place meats in sealed containers. The containers can then be placed in the refrigerator without fear of contaminating other foods. It will also allow the refrigerator surfaces to stay clean of any contaminates.

Restaurant and kitchen locations should follow state guidelines. Food handlers should only eat in designated areas as mandated by the state law. They should not use any form of tobacco when working in the restaurant and kitchen area. Workers shall also refrain from coughing or sneezing onto food items.

Cooking temperatures are equally important when preparing food for human consumption. The food handlers card Texas candidate must understand desired temperatures when cooking a variety of meats. Internal temperatures of chicken should be at 165 degrees when tested. Ground meat should be 160 degrees when measured. All other meats should have an internal temperature of 145 degrees at minimum. Meat temperatures should be measured with an approved meat thermometer. This will ensure safe food handling practices during preparation.

When certifying for food handlers card Texas, applicants will also learn a variety of other food handling precautions. Precautions include properly thawing foods, storing foods, and shopping for food items. A full understanding of food handling techniques and procedures will prevent foodborne illnesses.