Cooking can be a fun activity, and while recipes are a great starting point, there is no reason why you can’t experiment and “play” with your food. The sky is the limit! But… The little, sometimes seemingly insignificant choices can have a major impact.
Here are six mistakes many people make in the kitchen, not realizing they can harm you and the people you feed.
Ignoring Food Safety Practices
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You’d expect a chef at a restaurant to follow the proper food safety protocols, so why wouldn’t you do it in your own kitchen?
You may not necessarily go to as great of lengths, but certain practices, like proper meat handling, are non-negotiables. You should also wash your hands regularly, use separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables, and prevent cross-contamination at every step of the cooking process.
Overusing Non-Stick Cookware
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Non-stick cookware is a popular choice for many home cooks due to its convenience. Yet overusing these pans can be surprisingly bad for your health.
When non-stick pans are heated to high temperatures, they can release toxic chemicals that may pose serious health risks. Instead of relying solely on non-stick cookware, consider incorporating stainless steel or cast iron options into your kitchen.
Not Reading Labels
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If you’re not on a strict diet, you might feel like reading labels is pointless. You’re not restricting what you eat, so why bother?
It’s still a good idea to check labels because you might be surprised by how much-hidden fats, sugars, and additives are in something you originally thought was healthy. Always check the ingredient list and nutritional information before purchasing any food item. Look for products with fewer ingredients, and prioritize whole foods that are minimally processed.
Storing Food Improperly
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Different foods have different storage requirements. And if you aren’t following them, you could be inadvertently increasing your chances of getting sick.
The most notable example would probably be leftovers. Many people don’t allow their leftovers to cool down properly, which isn’t food-safe. Certain foods, like rice or chopped garlic, have specific storage requirements to follow so you don’t get sick.
Relying on Processed Foods
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There’s a reason people love processed foods: they’re convenient and often taste great. However, relying on them too heavily can have adverse effects on your health. These foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and preservatives, contributing to weight gain and various health issues.
Instead, focus on preparing fresh, whole foods whenever possible. Batch cooking and meal prepping can save you time during the week and ensure you have healthy options ready.
Skipping Breakfast
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We know some of you are rolling your eyes and sipping that black coffee on an empty stomach. But trust us: you’re doing yourself a disservice. Skipping breakfast can lead to a sluggish metabolism and increased cravings later in the day.
Instead of reaching for processed options, start your day with a balanced meal that includes protein, healthy fats, and fiber. And if you’re too tempted to resist that donut, just don’t let that be the only thing you eat; follow it up with something to help counterbalance the fats, sugars, and carbs.
10 Beers American Boomers Can’t Stop Guzzling
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Each generation has its favorites when it comes to everything from apps to restaurants. They have clear preferences for certain beers as well. Boomers, Gen Xers, and Millenials each have favorite beers that are their go-to beverage for a night out.
According to Visual Capitalist, these are the most popular beers for each of these generations.
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