Flour is a staple in so many tasty treats—think cookies, pizzas, and even playdough! But before you let your little ones dive into dough, here are some key things to keep in mind to keep everyone safe:
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Flour Isn’t Safe to Eat Raw
Flour can sometimes have harmful bacteria like E. coli, so make sure everything you bake is thoroughly cooked before tasting. This includes cookies, cake batter, and pizza dough. If it’s not ready to eat, don’t let your child take a bite! -
Wash Those Hands
Before and after handling flour (or the dough), give those hands a good wash with soap and warm water. It’s a simple way to avoid any germs from spreading. -
Keep Surfaces Clean
Flour can get messy fast! Make sure to wipe down surfaces, utensils, and bowls with soapy water to keep things safe and sanitary. -
Crafts and Play
If you’re using flour for crafting or play (like making homemade dough), ensure it’s kept away from the mouth—children might not realize it’s not for eating. Supervise them, and clean up thoroughly after.
Flour fun can be safe and enjoyable for the whole family—just remember to follow these tips so your kitchen stays safe and your little ones stay healthy!
For more details on handling flour safely, check out the Food Standards Agency's guidelines.