MANILA — The Department of Health (DOH) has reiterated its warning to the public to be extra careful when eating street food, especially this summer when food prepared by the roadside is prone to contamination.
“You know, we should really avoid street food because flies swarm on these,” DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III said in an interview with the media.
Bacteria-carrying flies will most likely contaminate the food, which can cause intestinal problems, such as E (Escherichia)-coli infections, typhoid fever, and even hepatitis when consumed, Duque added.
“So it’s risky. Do not just eat (street food),” he said.
To avoid experiencing intestinal problems this summer, Duque said even food prepared at home should not be left too long at room temperature as the heat increases the chance of food spoiling easily.
He also suggested reheating leftovers or food that has gone cold in the microwave.
To ensure that food prepared at home is kept fresh, Duque said people should observe the proper way of handling and preparing the food, and storing it at the proper temperature. (Leilani Junio/PNA)
