Why does FSSAI suggest cleaning and defrosting the fridge every 15 days during the monsoon

Come monsoon, and the damp weather makes every space the breeding ground for bacteria and germs. And one of the most common places where the bacteria grow is in the refrigerator. Hence, it is important to take extra care of the hygiene of this kitchen gadget. The country’s apex food regulator, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), recently issued an advisory that suggests all households clean and defrost their refrigerators every two weeks during the monsoon season. Wondering why? Let us find out.

According to the regulatory body, which runs under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, one should clean the fridge inside out and defrost it every 2 weeks. It says that regularly defrosting your fridge, cleaning it thoroughly, and storing food properly can help protect your family from a range of avoidable health issues, including food poisoning and digestive infections. FSSAI also states that when ice and frost build up, they interfere with even cooling and can lead to uneven temperatures, spoilage of food, and even damage to the appliance over time. Also, FSSAI has divided its monsoon food safety guidelines into three main areas: Eat Safe Food, Keep Kitchen Clean, and Maintain Personal Hygiene.

From the ‘Eat Safe Food’ guideline angle, FSSAI suggests washing fruits and vegetables with clean water before cooking. Cooking and reheating food thoroughly before eating. It also suggests not to leave cooked food at room temperature for more than two hours. Suggests refrigerating all leftover cooked food and perishable items – ideally below 5°C.

From the ‘Keep Kitchen Clean’ guideline perspective, it suggests washing and sanitising all surfaces and kitchen tools with disinfectant before preparing food. Cleaning kitchen floors using hot water mixed with disinfectant. Washing and drying utensils thoroughly before storing them. Clean the refrigerator inside out and defrost it every two weeks. Washing hands with soap & clean water before & after handling food. It suggests wearing clean preferably cotton clothes/aprons while cooking. Nails should be kept short & clean and hair neatly combed and tied while cooking and one should not use gadgets like phone or remote control while cooking.

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