World food safety day 2026: 5 surprising food hygeine myths every Indian should know
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“If it smells fine, it is safe to eat”
On World Food Safety Day 2026, here are 5 common misconceptions. A lot of people rely only on smell or taste to judge food freshness. But harmful bacteria often don’t change smell or flavour in the beginning.
Food can look and smell normal but still cause stomach infections. This is especially important for cooked rice, curries, and dairy products left outside.
Food can look and smell normal but still cause stomach infections. This is especially important for cooked rice, curries, and dairy products left outside.
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Washing chicken removes all germs
Many Indian kitchens wash raw chicken under tap water thinking it makes it safer. In reality, it can spread bacteria across the sink, utensils, and nearby surfaces.
Cooking at proper heat is what kills germs, not washing.
Cooking at proper heat is what kills germs, not washing.
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Refrigerated food can be kept for “as long as it looks fine”
A common habit is storing leftovers in the fridge for several days without checking properly. But refrigeration only slows bacteria — it doesn’t stop it completely.
Even refrigerated food has a safe limit. Old leftovers can still cause food poisoning.
Even refrigerated food has a safe limit. Old leftovers can still cause food poisoning.
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Cutting off the mouldy part makes food safe again
If one part of bread, fruit, or pickle shows mould, many people just cut it off and use the rest. But mould spreads deeper than what is visible.
The safer choice is to discard the whole item instead of trying to “save” it.
The safer choice is to discard the whole item instead of trying to “save” it.
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Hot food should cool fully before going into the fridge
Leaving food outside for too long to cool down is a common practice in Indian homes. But this actually allows bacteria to grow faster in room temperature.
Food should be refrigerated within a reasonable time after cooking, not left out for hours.
(Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes alone and should not be considered as professional medical advice and does not substitute any medical advice.)
Food should be refrigerated within a reasonable time after cooking, not left out for hours.
(Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes alone and should not be considered as professional medical advice and does not substitute any medical advice.)