Stay E. Coli Safe

Community contributed by Molokai Oompa Loompas

Hi, my name is Momi Afelin. I am writing on behalf of my Molokai robotics team. We are working on educating our community on safe food preparation. This week’s article is on Escherichia Coli O157:H7. While most strains of E. coli are harmless, this specific strain is very common in the U.S. and can cause severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fevers. E. coli is predominantly found in cattle. Food materials are often contaminated when the food comes in contact with a microscopic amount of feces. The most effective method of preventing E. coli contamination is to cook your meats to an internal temperature of 160 F. Another way to avoid being affected by E. coli is to simply wash your hands for 20 seconds with warm water before touching food.  The Molokai Oompa Loompas hope you stay E. coli safe.

All information provided on E. coli is supported by information found on the CDC website.