How can we ensure that the food we eat is clean and safe?

The Ministry of Health has advised members of the public to eat only clean food and to store raw and cooked food separately, cook food thoroughly, store food at a suitable temperature, and make sure that water and all cooking ingredients are clean, to reduce the chance of falling ill. Vientiane Times asked around for opinions on the best ways to eat safely.

Mr Xou, an employee in Vientiane: As we know, it’s quite hard to be sure the food we’re eating is clean because so much of it is grown using chemicals. It’s important that everyone pays attention to food safety and cleanliness because it directly affects our health and we should be more mindful of good hygiene. We should keep our homes clean and be careful about what we eat. We should also wash our hands frequently. If you fall ill, you should see a doctor or go to the nearest health facility at once.

Mr Photthajack, a government official in Chanthabouly district, Vientiane: Of course, everyone wants to eat food that is clean, safe and fresh. But in Laos it is quite hard to find these foods, as well as clean drinking water. Most of the food sold in markets is imported so it’s difficult to monitor hygiene, while a lot of the food produced in Laos contains chemicals. We often read that the authorities have found chemicals in various kinds of food in markets. Even though we have an organic market we can’t always be sure that the vegetables are clean, and the produce is quite expensive, which doesn’t help people on low incomes. I think all the sectors involved should do more to ensure that Lao food is cleaner and safer for everyone.
 
Ms Phone Soulivan, a resident of Saravan province: I think many Lao people are unaware of the causes of illness, especially in rural areas. And of course many people like to eat raw meat and fish. But everyone should be on their guard and make an attempt to learn more about the sources of illness. Health officials and doctors should disseminate more information about illness and symptoms, and how viruses and bacteria are transmitted. They should also tell people how to avoid becoming ill. People who are well informed about such matters should pass on useful information to others so that we are all better equipped to avoid illness.
 
Ms Lar Keomany, an employee in Champassak province:  We should be sure to drink only clean water. Food must be thoroughly cooked, while waste should be disposed of properly. We must also wash our hands before and after eating as well as after using the toilet to prevent pathogens entering our bodies via our hands. We need to get the right information about ways to protect ourselves and prevent illness from eating contaminated food. The authorities definitely need to do more in this regard and improve sanitation across the country. 
 
Mr Vieng, a resident of Vientiane: Of course, we need to pay more attention to what we eat and drink. As we know, it’s difficult to tell the difference between clean food and water and food that may be contaminated. In addition, cattle and other livestock are affected by disease. Lots of people like to eat raw meat, liver and seafood without any concern for harmful bacteria and parasites. There are numerous illnesses that can affect people if they eat uncooked food. I think this is because they don’t understand the causes and effects of diseases, so they don’t take matters such as cleanliness and hygiene seriously. I think the authorities should provide more advice to communities about ways to prevent diseases, and what to do if you are unwell.

By Lamphone Pasanthong
(Latest Update June 9, 2022)