Sandwell gives advice during Food Safety Week
Published on 12th June 2012
Sandwell residents can get some handy tips about food safety this week as part of a national campaign.
An information stand is in the main reception of Sandwell Council House in Oldbury as part of national Food Safety Week.
The stand will feature displays and leaflets about food safety on a budget. Other attractions at the stand during the week will be a UV light which people can used to really see how clean their hands are.
New research by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) shows that people are taking more risks with food safety as they try to save money and make their food go further.
Research showed that most questioned (97%) believed the cost of their typical shopping basket has gone up significantly in the last three years, with half of these trying to make better use of leftover food.
However, some people are ignoring 'Use By' dates more than they used to, while others are keeping leftovers for longer than the recommended limit of two days in the fridge.
Cabinet member for neighbourhood services Councillor Ian Jones said: "This is an important subject and we're happy to be providing our residents with useful information about food safety.
"Anyone interested in learning more about it should pop down to the council house any time this week and take a look at the display."
Bob Martin, a food safety expert at the FSA, added: "With most of us seeing our weekly shopping bills increase over the last few years, we are all looking for ways to get the most out of our shopping budget.
"Using leftover food is a good way of making our meals go further. However, unless we're careful, there's a chance we can risk food poisoning by not storing or handling them properly.
"During Food Safety Week we are working with Sandwell Council to encourage people to view their fridge as their friend and make the most of leftovers while staying safe."