The Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Hygiene: Tips for a Clean and Safe Cooking Experience

Cooking is an essential part of our daily lives, and a clean and hygienic kitchen is crucial for a safe and enjoyable cooking experience. With the increasing concern for food safety and hygiene, it is important to ensure that our cooking environment is clean and free from bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. In this guide, we will explore the various tips and techniques for maintaining a clean and hygienic kitchen, from basic cleaning procedures to advanced disinfection methods. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this guide will provide you with the ultimate tips for a safe and healthy cooking experience. So, let’s get started and discover the secrets to a clean and hygienic kitchen!

Why is kitchen hygiene important?

The risks of poor kitchen hygiene

Poor kitchen hygiene can lead to a variety of health risks for you and your family. Some of the most common risks include:

• Foodborne illness: Bacteria, viruses, and parasites can thrive in dirty kitchen environments, and improper food handling and preparation can lead to foodborne illness.
• Allergic reactions: Cross-contamination of foods can cause allergic reactions in those with food allergies, and dirty kitchen surfaces can harbor allergens that may not be visible to the naked eye.
• Unpleasant odors and taste: A dirty kitchen can lead to unpleasant odors and taste in your food, making it difficult to enjoy your meals.
• Pest infestations: A dirty kitchen can attract pests such as cockroaches and rodents, which can contaminate food and spread diseases.
• Increased risk of respiratory problems: Poor ventilation in a kitchen can lead to increased risk of respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies.
• Decreased efficiency in cooking: A dirty kitchen can lead to decreased efficiency in cooking, as dirty utensils and appliances can make cooking and cleaning more difficult.

It is important to take the risks of poor kitchen hygiene seriously and to take steps to maintain a clean and safe cooking environment. This guide will provide you with the tips and tools you need to keep your kitchen clean and safe for you and your family.

The benefits of good kitchen hygiene

Maintaining a clean and hygienic kitchen is essential for a number of reasons. Not only does it help to prevent the spread of illness, but it also helps to ensure that your food is safe to eat. In addition, good kitchen hygiene can help to extend the life of your appliances and utensils, and can even help to reduce pest infestations. Here are some of the key benefits of good kitchen hygiene:

• Preventing the spread of illness: One of the most important benefits of good kitchen hygiene is that it helps to prevent the spread of illness. By regularly washing your hands, cleaning and sanitizing surfaces, and properly storing food, you can help to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
• Ensuring food safety: Good kitchen hygiene is also essential for ensuring that your food is safe to eat. By following proper food handling and storage procedures, you can help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and other pathogens.
• Extending the life of appliances and utensils: By keeping your kitchen clean and well-maintained, you can help to extend the life of your appliances and utensils. This can help you to save money in the long run, as you won’t need to replace these items as frequently.
• Reducing pest infestations: A clean kitchen is less likely to attract pests such as mice and cockroaches. By keeping your kitchen clean and well-organized, you can help to reduce the risk of pest infestations.
• Improving air quality: A clean kitchen can also help to improve the air quality in your home. By removing allergens and other pollutants from the air, you can help to create a healthier living environment.

Overall, good kitchen hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy and safe cooking environment. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can help to ensure that your kitchen is clean, safe, and inviting.

Basic kitchen hygiene practices

Washing your hands frequently

Washing your hands frequently is one of the most basic yet essential practices in maintaining kitchen hygiene. This practice is particularly important when handling food or utensils, as it helps prevent the spread of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Here are some key points to keep in mind when washing your hands in the kitchen:

• Warm water: Use warm water rather than cold water to loosen up the grease and dirt on your hands.
• Soap: Use a mild soap that is safe for your skin. Avoid using harsh soaps or cleaners, as they can dry out your skin and leave it vulnerable to irritation.
• Scrubbing: Scrub your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, making sure to get the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Rinsing: Rinse your hands thoroughly under running water.
• Drying: Use a clean towel or air dryer to dry your hands completely.
• Applying moisturizer: Apply a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

It’s also important to wash your hands before and after handling food, as well as after using the restroom, blowing your nose, or handling pets. By following these simple steps, you can help prevent the spread of illness and maintain a clean and safe cooking environment.

Keeping your kitchen clean and organized

The Importance of a Clean and Organized Kitchen

A clean and organized kitchen is essential for a safe and enjoyable cooking experience. Not only does it prevent the spread of illness, but it also helps to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and helps to maintain the overall appearance and functionality of your kitchen.

Tips for Keeping Your Kitchen Clean and Organized

1. Clean as you go: One of the most important kitchen hygiene practices is to clean as you go. This means wiping down countertops, sinks, and stovetops after each use, and washing dishes immediately after meals.
2. Regular cleaning schedule: In addition to cleaning as you go, it’s important to have a regular cleaning schedule. This should include tasks such as wiping down appliances, cleaning the refrigerator, and vacuuming or sweeping the floors.
3. Proper storage: Proper storage is also key to keeping your kitchen clean and organized. This means storing food in appropriate containers, and keeping often-used items such as pots and pans easily accessible.
4. Get rid of clutter: Clutter can attract pests and make it difficult to keep your kitchen clean. Make sure to get rid of any unnecessary items and keep your kitchen surfaces clear.
5. Sanitize and disinfect: In addition to regular cleaning, it’s important to sanitize and disinfect your kitchen regularly. This can be done with a bleach solution or other approved disinfectants.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your kitchen clean and organized, and create a safe and enjoyable cooking environment.

Storing food safely

Proper food storage is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses. Follow these guidelines to store food safely:

• Clean and sanitize storage containers: Before using them, make sure to wash and sanitize all storage containers and utensils.
• Store fresh produce properly: Store potatoes and onions in a cool, dry place with good ventilation, and keep tomatoes in a cool place with low humidity.
• Store meat and poultry properly: Refrigerate raw meat and poultry in airtight containers to prevent cross-contamination.
• Keep fruits and vegetables separate: Store fruits and vegetables separately to prevent cross-contamination.
• Discard expired or spoiled food: Throw away any expired or spoiled food to prevent foodborne illnesses.
• Check food temperature: Use a food thermometer to ensure that the refrigerator’s temperature is below 40°F (4°C) and the freezer’s temperature is below 0°F (-18°C).
• Wash hands before and after handling food: Wash hands before and after handling food to prevent cross-contamination.
• Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces: Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Keep food covered: Keep food covered to prevent contamination and to maintain freshness.
• Separate raw and cooked food: Separate raw and cooked food to prevent cross-contamination.
• Check expiration dates: Check expiration dates before using food to ensure freshness and safety.
• Store perishable food properly: Store perishable food properly to prevent spoilage and foodborne illnesses.
• Check food for signs of spoilage: Check food for signs of spoilage, such as mold, off odors, or sliminess, before consuming it.
• Avoid cross-contamination: Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw and cooked food and washing hands between tasks.
• Monitor food temperatures: Monitor food temperatures during cooking and reheating to ensure that food is cooked to the proper temperature.
• Keep kitchen clean and organized: Keep the kitchen clean and organized to prevent the spread of bacteria and to make food preparation easier and more efficient.

Cooking and food preparation hygiene

Using clean and sanitized cooking tools and surfaces

Importance of clean and sanitized cooking tools and surfaces

Cooking and food preparation tools and surfaces that are not properly cleaned and sanitized can harbor harmful bacteria, leading to foodborne illnesses. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that all cooking tools and surfaces are clean and sanitized before, during, and after food preparation.

Proper cleaning and sanitizing techniques

Cleaning and sanitizing cooking tools and surfaces involve several steps to ensure their effectiveness. First, remove any visible debris or food particles from the tools and surfaces using warm water and mild detergent. Then, scrub if necessary. Next, rinse thoroughly with clean water.

After cleaning, sanitizing is necessary to kill any remaining bacteria. To sanitize, mix a solution of water and an appropriate sanitizer, such as a bleach solution (1/2 cup of bleach per gallon of water) or a commercial sanitizer approved for food contact surfaces. Apply the sanitizer to the tools and surfaces, ensuring full coverage, and let it sit for the recommended amount of time before rinsing with clean water.

Regular maintenance and inspection

To maintain kitchen hygiene, it is crucial to perform regular cleaning and sanitizing of cooking tools and surfaces. A good practice is to schedule cleaning at specific intervals, such as after each use or at the end of the day. Regular inspection of tools and surfaces for signs of wear, damage, or contamination is also essential. Replacing or repairing damaged tools and removing any contaminated surfaces will help prevent the spread of bacteria and maintain a clean and safe cooking environment.

Storage of cooking tools and surfaces

Proper storage of cooking tools and surfaces is another essential aspect of kitchen hygiene. Store tools and surfaces in a clean and dry area, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Stacking tools and surfaces neatly can help promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which can encourage bacterial growth.

In conclusion, using clean and sanitized cooking tools and surfaces is vital for a safe and healthy cooking experience. By following proper cleaning, sanitizing, and maintenance techniques, as well as regularly inspecting and storing tools and surfaces, you can help prevent the spread of bacteria and ensure a clean and safe kitchen environment.

Handling raw meat safely

Proper handling of raw meat is essential to prevent the spread of bacteria and to ensure a safe cooking experience. Here are some tips for handling raw meat safely:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after handling raw meat.
• Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other foods to prevent cross-contamination.
• Avoid splashing water or other liquids while handling raw meat to prevent splashing and cross-contamination.
• Store raw meat in a leak-proof container at the bottom of the refrigerator to prevent contamination of other foods.
• Cook raw meat thoroughly to kill any bacteria that may be present. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the meat reaches the recommended safe minimum internal temperature.
• Do not reuse marinades or sauces that have come into contact with raw meat.
• Always thaw frozen raw meat in the refrigerator, not on the countertop, to prevent bacterial growth.
• Avoid using a plate or utensil that has come into contact with raw meat to prepare ready-to-eat foods, such as salads or sandwiches.

By following these tips, you can help prevent the spread of bacteria and ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.

Preventing cross-contamination

Cross-contamination is the transfer of harmful bacteria from one food item to another. It is a common cause of foodborne illnesses, and it can easily occur in the kitchen. Here are some tips to help prevent cross-contamination:

• Separate raw meat, poultry, and seafood from other foods. Always store raw meat, poultry, and seafood in separate containers on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator to prevent the juices from contaminating other foods.
• Wash hands before and after handling food. Always wash your hands with warm water and soap before and after handling food to prevent the spread of bacteria.
• Clean and sanitize cutting boards. Cutting boards can harbor bacteria, so it’s important to clean and sanitize them regularly. Use a cutting board designated specifically for raw meat, poultry, and seafood to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.
• Use separate utensils for raw meat, poultry, and seafood. Use separate knives, cutting boards, and plates for raw meat, poultry, and seafood to prevent cross-contamination.
• Cook food to the proper temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that food is cooked to the proper temperature to kill any harmful bacteria.
• Avoid thawing food at room temperature. Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator or in a sealed bag in cold water, not on the counter where bacteria can grow.
• Check for food safety. Before serving food, check for signs of food safety, such as spoilage, off odors, and changes in texture or color. If in doubt, throw it out.

By following these simple tips, you can help prevent cross-contamination and keep your kitchen clean and safe for food preparation.

Maintaining a clean and healthy kitchen environment

Regular cleaning and disinfection

In order to maintain a clean and healthy kitchen environment, it is essential to regularly clean and disinfect all surfaces and equipment that come into contact with food. This not only helps to prevent the spread of illness, but also helps to keep your kitchen looking and smelling fresh. Here are some tips for regular cleaning and disinfection in your kitchen:

• Schedule a daily cleaning routine: It is important to schedule a daily cleaning routine that includes wiping down countertops, washing dishes, and cleaning any spills or messes immediately. This will help to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria in your kitchen.
• Use hot water and soap: When cleaning surfaces, use hot water and soap to help loosen and remove dirt and grime. Hot water is also effective at killing germs and bacteria.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces: Frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and handles should be disinfected regularly to prevent the spread of illness.
• Use a disinfectant solution: A disinfectant solution can be made by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar, or by using a store-bought disinfectant. Be sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully.
• Dry surfaces thoroughly: After cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, be sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
• Dispose of cleaning materials properly: Be sure to dispose of cleaning materials properly, such as by pouring them down the drain with hot water or by placing them in a sealed trash bag.

By following these tips for regular cleaning and disinfection, you can help to maintain a clean and healthy kitchen environment for yourself and your family.

Proper disposal of food waste

One of the most important aspects of maintaining a clean and healthy kitchen environment is the proper disposal of food waste. Food waste can attract pests, create unpleasant odors, and contribute to the spread of illness if not handled correctly. Here are some tips for proper food waste disposal:

• Use a food waste disposal unit: A food waste disposal unit is a plumbing fixture that grinds up food waste into small pieces, which are then washed down the drain with water. This is a convenient and effective way to dispose of food waste, but it’s important to use it correctly to avoid clogs and other problems. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the disposal unit, and never dispose of large items like bones or whole vegetables, as these can cause jamming.
• Use composting: Composting is the process of breaking down organic materials like food waste into a soil-like substance that can be used to fertilize plants. This is a great way to reduce waste and create a natural fertilizer for your garden. You can set up a compost bin in your kitchen or backyard, and add food scraps, coffee grounds, and other organic materials to it.
• Use a trash can with a tight-fitting lid: If you don’t have a food waste disposal unit or composting system, you can simply place food waste in a trash can with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure to seal the lid tightly to prevent odors from escaping, and use a trash bag to line the can.
• Don’t dispose of food waste down the drain: While a food waste disposal unit can be a convenient way to dispose of food waste, it’s important to avoid disposing of large items like bones or whole vegetables down the drain. These can cause jamming and other problems in the plumbing system.

By following these tips for proper food waste disposal, you can help maintain a clean and healthy kitchen environment.

Dealing with spills and accidents

Dealing with spills and accidents is an essential part of maintaining a clean and healthy kitchen environment. Here are some tips to help you handle these situations effectively:

• Act quickly: The faster you deal with a spill or accident, the better. Bacteria can multiply rapidly, so it’s crucial to clean up as soon as possible.
• Use the right cleaning supplies: Different surfaces require different cleaning methods and supplies. For example, use soap and warm water for most surfaces, but for greasy or oily spills, use a degreaser or a mixture of baking soda and water. Always wear gloves when using harsh chemicals.
• Clean from the source: Clean up spills from the source outwards. Start by soaking up the spill with paper towels or a clean cloth, then clean the surrounding area with soap and water or a cleaning solution.
• Dispose of waste properly: Properly dispose of any spoiled or contaminated food, as well as any cleaning supplies or other waste materials.
• Ventilate the area: If you’re dealing with strong cleaning solutions or cooking odors, make sure to ventilate the area by opening windows or using a fan.
• Clean your hands: After handling any spills or accidents, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to prevent the spread of bacteria.

By following these tips, you can help prevent the spread of bacteria and keep your kitchen clean and safe for cooking.

Tips for maintaining a hygienic kitchen

Use disposable gloves when handling food

Disposable gloves are an essential tool for maintaining kitchen hygiene. They provide a barrier between your hands and the food you are preparing, which helps to prevent the spread of bacteria and other microorganisms. Here are some tips for using disposable gloves in the kitchen:

1. Use a new pair of gloves for each task: It is important to use a new pair of gloves for each task you perform in the kitchen. This helps to prevent the spread of bacteria from one task to another.
2. Use gloves when handling raw meat: Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. By using disposable gloves when handling raw meat, you can prevent these bacteria from spreading to other foods or surfaces in the kitchen.
3. Use gloves when handling food that may be contaminated: If you are handling food that may be contaminated, such as leftovers or food that has been left out at room temperature for too long, use disposable gloves to prevent the spread of bacteria.
4. Use gloves when cleaning: Disposable gloves can also be useful when cleaning the kitchen. They provide a barrier between your hands and any cleaning chemicals or abrasive cleaners you may be using.
5. Dispose of gloves properly: Once you have finished using disposable gloves, be sure to dispose of them properly. Place them in a covered trash can to prevent accidental contact with other foods or surfaces in the kitchen.

By following these tips, you can use disposable gloves to help maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment.

Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly

High-touch surfaces are those that are frequently touched by hands, such as faucets, handles, and countertops. These surfaces can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses, which can easily spread to other areas of the kitchen and to other people. Therefore, it is essential to clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly to maintain a hygienic kitchen.

Here are some tips for cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces:

1. Use warm water and mild soap to clean high-touch surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch or damage surfaces.
2. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
3. Use a disinfectant solution to clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces. A solution of water and an appropriate disinfectant, such as bleach or alcohol, can be effective in killing germs on surfaces. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and effective use of disinfectants.
4. Allow surfaces to dry completely before using them again. This helps to prevent the spread of germs and reduces the risk of cross-contamination.
5. Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly, especially after using them to prepare raw meat, poultry, or seafood. These surfaces can harbor harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause foodborne illness.

By following these tips, you can help to maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment that reduces the risk of foodborne illness and promotes good health.

Don’t mix raw and cooked foods

Maintaining a clean and hygienic kitchen is essential for a safe and enjoyable cooking experience. One of the most important rules to follow is to never mix raw and cooked foods. This may seem like a simple rule, but it is crucial for preventing the spread of harmful bacteria.

Raw meat, poultry, and seafood can all harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These bacteria can contaminate other foods and surfaces in the kitchen, potentially causing foodborne illness. To prevent this, it is important to keep raw and cooked foods separate at all times.

Here are some specific tips for following this rule:

• Use separate cutting boards for raw meat, poultry, and seafood, and for other foods such as vegetables and fruits. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria from raw foods to other foods.
• Avoid using the same utensils for raw and cooked foods. If you do need to use the same utensils, make sure to wash them thoroughly between uses.
• Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood in their own containers or bags to prevent contamination of other foods.
• Use a food thermometer to ensure that meat, poultry, and seafood are cooked to a safe internal temperature to kill any harmful bacteria.

By following these tips, you can help prevent the spread of harmful bacteria in your kitchen and ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.

Recap of key points

1. Regularly clean and disinfect all surfaces, including countertops, stovetops, refrigerator handles, and cabinet doors.
2. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat, poultry, and seafood to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before use, and avoid using knives or other utensils on produce without washing them first.
4. Avoid overcrowding the fridge, and clean it regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria.
5. Wash your hands frequently, especially after handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood, and before preparing food.
6. Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood in separate containers on the bottom shelf of the fridge to prevent juices from contaminating other foods.
7. Regularly check and clean the ventilation system in your kitchen to prevent the buildup of grease and mold.
8. Avoid using dish rags or sponges that are difficult to clean, and use a dishwasher to sanitize dishes and utensils.
9. Store cleaning supplies and chemicals in a safe and secure location away from children and pets.
10. Consider using a professional kitchen cleaning service to ensure a deep clean and remove any stubborn grime or odors.

The importance of ongoing kitchen hygiene efforts

In order to maintain a clean and safe kitchen, it is important to engage in ongoing hygiene efforts. These efforts should include regular cleaning and disinfection of all surfaces, as well as proper food handling and storage practices.

Additionally, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain kitchen equipment, such as refrigerators and stoves, to ensure they are functioning properly and not harboring any bacteria or other contaminants.

Moreover, it is essential to train all members of the household on proper hygiene practices and to enforce these practices consistently. This will help to prevent the spread of illness and ensure that the kitchen remains a safe and pleasant environment for cooking and eating.

In conclusion, ongoing kitchen hygiene efforts are crucial for maintaining a clean and safe cooking environment. By regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, practicing proper food handling and storage, and maintaining kitchen equipment, as well as educating and enforcing hygiene practices among household members, you can help to prevent the spread of illness and ensure a pleasant cooking experience.

FAQs

1. What is the importance of kitchen hygiene when cooking?

Kitchen hygiene is essential when cooking to prevent the spread of illness and to ensure that the food you prepare is safe to eat. Cleanliness in the kitchen helps to reduce the risk of cross-contamination, which can occur when harmful bacteria spread from one food item to another. Proper kitchen hygiene also helps to maintain a clean and organized workspace, making cooking more efficient and enjoyable.

2. What are some tips for maintaining a clean kitchen?

Maintaining a clean kitchen is an important aspect of kitchen hygiene. Here are some tips for keeping your kitchen clean:
* Wash your hands regularly: This is one of the most important steps you can take to maintain kitchen hygiene. Wash your hands before and after handling food, as well as between tasks.
* Clean and sanitize surfaces regularly: Clean and sanitize all surfaces and equipment regularly, including countertops, cutting boards, utensils, and appliances. Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean surfaces, and a disinfectant solution to sanitize them.
* Store food properly: Store food items properly to prevent contamination. Keep raw meat and poultry separate from other food items, and store perishable items in the refrigerator at the appropriate temperature.
* Dispose of food waste properly: Dispose of food waste properly to prevent the spread of illness. Use a garbage bag or a designated bin to collect food waste, and take it out of the kitchen as soon as possible.

3. How can I prevent cross-contamination when cooking?

Cross-contamination can occur when harmful bacteria spread from one food item to another. Here are some tips for preventing cross-contamination when cooking:
* Use separate cutting boards: Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and poultry, and for other food items. This helps to prevent the spread of bacteria from raw meat to other food items.
* Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before using them in a recipe. This helps to remove any bacteria or germs that may be present on the surface of the produce.
* Cook food to the proper temperature: Cook food to the proper temperature to ensure that it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of meat and poultry, and make sure that all food reaches a safe internal temperature.
* Store food properly: Store food properly to prevent contamination. Keep raw meat and poultry separate from other food items, and store perishable items in the refrigerator at the appropriate temperature.

4. What should I do if I accidentally drop food on the floor?

If you accidentally drop food on the floor, it is important to clean it up properly to prevent the spread of illness. Here are some steps to follow:
* Don’t eat the food: Do not eat the food if it has come into contact with the floor. It is best to discard it to avoid the risk of illness.
* Clean the area: Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the area where the food dropped. If the food was raw meat or poultry, use a disinfectant solution to sanitize the area.
* Dispose of the food: Dispose of the food properly to prevent the spread of illness. Use a garbage bag or a designated bin to collect food waste, and take it out of the kitchen as soon as possible.

5. How can I avoid getting sick from foodborne illness?

Here are some tips for avoiding foodborne illness:
* Wash your hands regularly: Wash your hands regularly, especially before and after handling food. This helps to prevent the spread of illness.
* Practice good hygiene: Practice good hygiene in the kitchen by washing

Clean and Hygienic cooking practices