Health promotion in the home: 1. Food poisoning: the link with home hygiene.

The incidence of food poisoning in the UK is increasing substantially, with about 50% arising in the home. Many different organisms cause food-borne infections, including Salmonella, Campylobacter and Shigella. Storing food correctly is important. Many households shop only once a week and food is often kept for several days before being eaten. Standards of domestic kitchen hygiene must be improved if the incidence of food poisoning is to be reduced Hand washing, kitchen cleanliness and disinfection are essential.