Health Ministry Statement Regarding Holidays

The Ministry of Health of the Republic of Armenia reminds that during the New Year holidays, there are favorable conditions for the emergence of infectious diseases due to food factors, as during these days, there is an increased consumption of long-stored, improperly maintained, and repeatedly reheated food items. Additionally, incompatible food products may be used together, which can lead to various digestive system disturbances.

The ministry has provided advice on how to avoid food poisoning:

• During holidays, to avoid foodborne infections and poisoning, it is necessary to purchase groceries from stores rather than unregulated sales points.
• Pay attention to food storage conditions, expiration dates, and appearance when shopping.
• Prepare salads, meat dishes, and pastries at home in small quantities while adhering to hygiene rules.
• If ready-made food is acquired from stores, check the preparation and sales dates, storage conditions, and temperature.
• Before using semi-finished products, they must undergo double heat treatment.
• Store baked goods and cream cakes in the refrigerator for no more than three days.
• Wash hands before preparing food and every time after touching raw ingredients.
• Use separate cutting boards and knives for raw and cooked food.
• Thoroughly wash greens, fruits, and vegetables.
• Avoid using homemade canned food; if you must use them, boil them for 15-20 minutes.
• Do not buy or consume mushrooms of unknown origin.

Nonetheless, if you experience digestive disturbances, nausea, or abdominal pain, seek medical attention immediately,” the statement reads.