Cracked crockery health hazard

A WELL-known British food circle used to smash cracked or chipped plates on which food was served in front of startled waiters and restaurant customers.

It was a drastic, but effective, way of protesting about poor hygiene. Cracked or chipped crockery harbour germs which are impossible to remove.

This applies as much at home as in a top-class restaurant. Many of the hygiene guidelines used in restaurants are applicable to the smallest apartment kitchen.

All crockery, equipment used for food preparation and utensils should be washed and preferably sterilised after use.

Crockery and utensils can be sterilised by immersing them for a minute in boiling water.

They should then be stored in dust and insect-proof cupboards.