Cook high risk foods safely

Read our tips on how to prepare, cook and store rice safely to reduce the risk of food poisoning.

Cook rice safely

We see rice as a high risk food. It can support the growth of bacteria that cause food poisoning. Follow these steps to serve safe rice.

Personal hygiene 

You should:

  • always wash hands after using the toilet
  • keep cuts and other injuries covered

Preparation and cooking

You should:

  • wash rice thoroughly, and only use clean equipment
  • never use the same containers for raw and cooked rice
  • cool small quantities and serve fresh, if possible

Storage

You should:

  • never store rice at room temperature, cool it quickly and put in the fridge
  • if rice is cold, keep the temperature below 8°C
  • if rice is hot, keep the temperature above 63°C
  • if you reheat rice from cold, make sure the rice reaches at least 75°C
  • use a thermometer to check the temperature

If you have any questions, phone 01273 292 161 or send an email to ehl.food@brighton-hove.gov.uk.