FOOD-HANDLING PRACTICES OF IRISH BEEF CONSUMERS

Illnesses from foodborne pathogens are one of the most widespread public health concerns worldwide. Because of the more frequent contamination of foods of animal origin with these pathogens, these foods have an inherent food safety risk and require caution when handling. Minced beef, with its large surface area and its moist and nutritive flesh, is particularly susceptible to contamination. This study was designed to investigate consumer food‐handling practices in regard to minced beef. A sample of 485 minced beef consumers, who were also the main shoppers and food handlers in their homes, were interviewed. It was found out that many failed to store minced beef on the correct shelf of the fridge and to use the correct procedures for defrosting meat. These should be the focus of future food safety campaigns, especially targeting those with lower education levels and from lower socio‐economic groups.