Environmental health expert Florence Kuukyi has advised Ghanaians to exercise extra caution when purchasing and preparing food following the June 29 floods, warning that contaminated food could pose serious health risks.
Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Ms Klutsey said food items being sold in markets after the floods may have been exposed to contaminated floodwaters.
“If you buy foodstuffs now from the market, they might not be that healthy. Let your family’s health be your priority,” she cautioned.
She urged consumers to thoroughly wash vegetables before consumption to reduce the risk of foodborne diseases.
“But the vegetables, take them home and wash them thoroughly. Use vinegar or salt when washing,” she advised.
Ms Klutsey also encouraged shoppers to avoid buying vegetables displayed on the ground, as they are more likely to have come into contact with contaminated water.
“Don’t buy vegetables from the floor. Buy the ones displayed on tables,” she said.
According to the environmental health expert, soaking vegetables in a vinegar solution for 10 to 15 minutes can help remove dirt and reduce contamination.
“Soak your vegetables for about 10 to 15 minutes in vinegar,” she recommended.
She further advised the public to consume freshly prepared hot meals whenever possible, noting that home-cooked food offers greater assurance of safety.
“Make sure you eat hot foods as well. When you cook your own food, you have the confidence that it is safe rather than someone else preparing it for you,” she added.
Her advice comes in the wake of the June 29 floods, which inundated several communities, markets and roads, raising concerns about food safety and the potential outbreak of waterborne and foodborne diseases.
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