Style Counsel
Illawarra Mercury
Wednesday August 11, 2004
If you have a style issue that just can't be resolved, taste will do the hard yards for you, seeking the best advice to all your shopping and chic dilemmas. So drop us a line and we'll track down the expert who can help.
Q I recently suffered a stomach ache after bringing home a doggy bag. Was this the restaurant's fault and what action can I take?A Many restaurants allow customers to take home their leftovers in doggy bags, but if you don't take the proper precautions it can lead to food poisoning.Once that food has left the restaurant it is important to make sure it is stored at the right temperature.Bacteria is rife between five and 60 degrees celsius, so once your food is home, store it in the refrigerator right away.When re-heating, it is recommended you warm it to at least 75?C for at least two minutes before eating.As a key, anything left outside the refrigerator for more than four hours should be thrown out, this includes the time taken getting it from the restaurant to the fridge.Other ways to keep your food free of bad bacteria include keeping your hands clean when handling food, keeping utensils clean, cooking food thoroughly, and not cross contaminating by using the same utensils for both uncooked and cooked food.The Restaurant and Catering Association points out there is no ruling in the Food Act 2003 that prevents eateries from providing doggy bags, but they can elect not to provide this service, so treat your doggy bag as a privilege.Send your questions to taste Style Counsel, PO Box 1215, Wollongong, 2500 or email taste@illawarramercury.com.au
© 2004 Illawarra Mercury