ClEaN KiTcHeNs

Clean Kitchens


The cardinal rule of safe food preparation in the home is: Keep everything clean.Some advice from the USDA Food Safety & Inspection ServiceThe cleanliness rule applies to the areas where food is prepared and, most importantly, to the cook. Wash hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before starting to prepare a meal and after handling raw meat or poultry. Cover long hair with a net or scarf, and be sure that any open sores or cuts on the hands are completely covered. If the sore or cut is infected, stay out of the kitchen. Keep the work area clean and uncluttered. Wash countertops with a solution of 5 milliliters (1 teaspoon) of chlorine bleach to about 1 liter (1 quart) of water or with a commercial kitchen cleaning agent diluted according to product directions. They're the most effective at getting rid of bacteria. Also, be sure to keep dishcloths and sponges clean because, when wet, these materials harbor bacteria and may promote their growth. Wash dishcloths and sponges weekly in hot water in the washing machine. While you're at it, sanitize the kitchen sink drain periodically by pouring down the sink a solution of 5 milliliters of bleach to 1 liter of water or a commercial kitchen cleaning agent. Food particles get trapped in the drain and disposal and, along with moistness, create an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Use smooth cutting boards made of hard maple or plastic and free of cracks and crevices. Avoid boards made of soft, porous materials. Wash cutting boards with hot water, soap, and a scrub brush. Then, sanitize them in an automatic dishwasher or by rinsing with a solution of 5 milliliters of chlorine bleach to about 1 liter of water. Always wash and sanitize cutting boards after using them for raw foods, such as seafood or chicken, and before using them for ready-to-eat foods. Consider using one cutting board only for foods that will be cooked, such as raw fish, and another only for ready-to-eat foods, such as bread, fresh fruit, and cooked fish.Always use clean utensils and wash them between cutting different foods.Wash the lids of canned foods before opening to keep dirt from getting into the food. Also, clean the blade of the can opener after each use. Food processors and meat grinders should be taken apart and cleaned as soon as possible after they are used.Do not put cooked meat on an unwashed plate or platter that has held raw meat.Wash fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly, rinsing in warm water. Don't use soap or other detergents. If necessary--and appropriate--use a small scrub brush to remove surface dirt.

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GaLlErY Of KiTcHeNs

FiTtEd KiTcHeN

Fitted Kitchens


When choosing fitted kitchens consider the many options and choices available in today's market. The cost of fitted kitchens can vary dramatically with introductory packages starting at around £3000. It is important when choosing fitted kitchens to first of all think about designing and planning the area to make the best possible use of the space available. Most retail outlets offer excellent design and planning services for fitted kitchens and in many cases this service is free of charge. Consider whether or not you will arrange for the installation yourself or if the work should be undertaken by the supplier's installation team. The latter may sometimes appear a more expensive option, but quite often in the long run the final total cost difference is often negligible. Consumers buying fitted kitchens generally speaking are far more pleased with the final overall result when installation is arranged by the retailer. When selecting your equipment try to be practical. Consider what the room will be used for, preparing food, cooking and washing or will it be used as a social area for eating, drinking and socialising with family members and friends. These are important points when deciding what purposes the space will fulfil. The choices of designs and styles available today have never been greater, from traditional wooden units to modern and contemporary styles. Latest choices include beech, maple and birch, while more traditional oaks and pines still remain popular choices. In addition to the furniture available take time to consider the purchase of new appliances, worktops and sinks.