Research by the Food Standards Agency showed that people over the age of 60 are at increased risk of food poisoning and more likely to take risks with use by dates on food.

The Food Team will be attending Senior Forum events throughout the district, this week and beyond, to discuss food safety and provide simple hygiene advice.

The team will be available at the Senior Forum meeting in Skegby on June 17 at 2pm, Kirkby Senior Forum Health Awareness Event on June 24 at 3pm and Hucknall Senior Forum Health Awareness Event on September 22 at 10am.

Eating food past its use by date increases the risk of food poisoning from listeria, a potentially deadly food bug more likely to affect those with weakened immune systems, such as the over 60s.

Further research by the Food Standards Agency into the over 60s’ attitudes towards food safety showed people were reluctant to throw away food and were confused by fridge temperatures.

A national hygiene campaign aimed at the over 60s is being launched this week to raise awareness of the dangers of listeria and the steps that can be taken to avoid it, including being aware that use by dates indicate how long food will remain safe and sticking to them, and making sure the fridge is cold enough, between 0°C and 5°C. 

Leaflets containing information on simple precautions people can take to help lower the risk of listeria are available at all council offices.

The Food Team will also be visiting several schools within the district to provide information and advice on food safety to school children.