5 must-know tips on preparing a safer and healthier baon

With the easing of quarantine protocols in many parts of the country, employees are starting to adapt to the new normal and return to work. However, things aren't quite back to how they used to be. For instance, many restaurants are still closed, or are open but with limited capacity which, among other important issues, limits the food choices for Filipino workers during break time.

To help with this, Solane, the country's leading LPG brand, offers some tips on safely preparing healthy baon that you can bring to work.
Clean your cooking space. Prior to cooking, make sure to clean every kitchen surface and equipment that your food will come into contact with to stop bacteria from spreading. This includes the countertops, cutting boards, pans, dishes, and even utensils. Wash or wipe them down with warm, soapy water and dry them with a clean cloth or paper towel. Also, do not forget to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Cook with fresh ingredients. Now more than ever, preparing a healthy meal is essential, and cooking at home enables you to do so. Avoid canned or processed food. Instead, buy fresh and high-quality ingredients. Fresh food can really improve your health since it retains more nutrients. Also, you can enjoy a tastier meal because you get the most flavor possible from fresh ingredients. Try supporting local businesses and buy your groceries from them. Many reputable sellers are on social media and offer delivery.

Use insulated containers. Using an insulated lunch box and containers is the best option for packing your meals. Consider investing in them if you haven’t yet. They can keep your food warm and help minimize bacterial contamination and growth. Another advantage of having insulated containers is that they are reusable, eco-friendly, and may be safer. Single-use plastic containers and food wraps may carry a higher risk of cross-contamination.
Store food properly. To avoid rushing to cook your lunch in the morning, it's a good idea to prepare your meal the night before, or even days ahead. When prepping ahead of time, it’s also advisable to know how to store your food properly to maintain its quality. If you’re storing freshly cooked food, let your food cool first for a few minutes before putting it in your fridge to avoid spoilage. Cook a big batch, then divide it into small portions and put in separate containers for each day of the workweek. Also, always check the shelf life of the meals you make.

Turn off all heat sources. After you are done preparing your meals, make sure to turn off all the cooking equipment that you used, especially the gas stove and the LPG cylinder. Moreover, it is best to cook with a trusted liquefied petroleum gas brand like Solane to help ensure safety in the kitchen.
For more information, visit https://www.solane.com.ph/ or www.facebook.com/solane.ph.