Answer :
Final answer:
To keep food safe from physical contamination, use food-safe packaging materials, regularly inspect and clean equipment, and cover food to protect it from pests. Additionally, regular handwashing, proper food storage, and cooking to recommended temperatures are key practices for preventing foodborne diseases.
Explanation:
Three ways to keep food safe from physical contamination include the use of food-safe packaging materials, the regular inspection and cleaning of equipment, and the practice of keeping food covered to protect it from pests. Using proper packaging helps prevent chemicals and physical hazards from coming into contact with food. Cleaning and inspecting equipment ensure that potential sources of contamination are removed, thus reducing the risk of physical contaminants being transferred to food. Finally, keeping food covered is a simple yet effective way to safeguard it against pests and environmental contaminants that may otherwise cause harm to food products.
Furthermore, practices like regular handwashing, proper storage and rotation of perishables, and thorough cooking to the recommended internal temperature of at least 74 degrees Celsius (165 degrees Fahrenheit) are essential to preventing transmission of foodborne disease. Using a cooking thermometer can help ensure that your food reaches a high enough temperature to kill harmful bacteria. The top four germs that cause illnesses from food eaten in the United States are Norovirus, Salmonella, Clostridium perfringens, and Campylobacter, making it crucial to follow these food safety practices to avoid foodborne diseases.