We meticulously wash our hands before preparing food, yet we often overlook a crucial hygiene hotspot: our spice racks. Think about it: we cook, touch raw meat, handle vegetables and then, with those same hands, we reach for spices and sprinkle them directly onto our food.
Cross-contamination is a major concern when it comes to food safety. Bacteria can easily transfer from our hands to spices, and then directly into our meals. A 2018 study published in the Canadian Journal of Microbiology found that a significant percentage of commonly used spices in home kitchens were contaminated with bacteria.
So, how can you keep your spice rack clean and your meals safe?
- Regular Cleaning:
- Regularly wipe down your spice jars and the shelf or rack they sit on with a damp cloth and mild disinfectant , ideally once a week.
- Use a clean spoon to scoop out spices instead of using your fingers.
- For added hygiene, consider using spice grinders with built-in scoops.
- Dedicated Spoons: Invest in a set of small, dedicated spoons specifically for scooping spices. Store these spoons in a clean, dry location.
- Proper Storage: Store spices in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight. This helps to preserve their flavour and prevents the growth of bacteria.
- Regularly Check Expiration Dates: Discard any spices that have passed their expiration date.
