Tuesday, October 5, 2010

October 'Culinary Nutrition News' tackles foodborne illness

From eggs to spinach to peanut butter, common kitchen ingredients can easily be contaminated, leading to foodborne illnesses. The October issue of "Culinary Nutrition News: Preventable Foodborne Illnesses?" explains causes of foodborne illness, examines several recent cases and offers chefs tips on how to avoid an outbreak. The article, presented by the American Culinary Federation Chef & Child Foundation (CCF) and Clemson University, Clemson, S.C., is now available for download at www.acfchefs.org/CNN.

Author Margaret Condrasky, R.D., CCE, of Clemson University, outlines common types of bacteria that cause foodborne illness and how they are transmitted, from raw or undercooked meat to contaminated water. In addition, the article offers foodservice professionals tips on how to avoid contamination, such as wash hands, utensils and cutting boards before and after contact with raw meat and use a food thermometer.

The American Culinary Federation's Chef & Child Foundation and Clemson University partnered in May 2009 to offer a series of monthly articles designed to bridge the nutrition gap for chefs by providing up-to-date research information. Upcoming topics include genetically modified foods and quality carbohydrates.