The British Leek Growers Association supports the guidelines given by the Food Standards Agency to consumers on how to safely prepare raw foods, these include:

• Wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet, after handling raw meat or raw vegetables, before meals and after contact with animals
• Ensure that refrigerators are working correctly - bacteria grow more quickly at temperatures over 4C
• Store uncooked meats below cooked meats and salad vegetables to avoid dripping meat juices onto ready to eat food
• Thoroughly wash all vegetables before consumption
• Thoroughly wash all knives and cooking boards after use to prevent cross contamination

For further guidance on safe food preparation visit www.fsa.gov.uk