Rains have already started falling in some parts of India, bringing a breather from the long summer. While the chilly weather and the sound of tapping on the window panes are comforting, you should also be aware of the health concerns that come with it. Monsoon is associated with various health concerns like flu, gastrointestinal disorders, fever, etc. as the humid weather serves as a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. And one of the most affected places is the kitchen. With constant cooking and running water, the humidity in the space automatically increases, which often leads to food contamination and food poisoning. But don't worry, we have found some clever hacks to keep your kitchen clean and safe during this monsoon period. After all, you don't want to spend this beautiful season making frequent visits to the doctor's office, do you? So, grab your pen and paper and jot down the essentials you need in your kitchen. Read on.
Read also: Keep your kitchen clean and safe: 5 monsoon tips you can't ignore
Monsoon Kitchen Tips: 5 must-have items for your kitchen during the rainy season:
1. Clean your kitchen chimney and exhaust fan:
Cooking on high flames leads to moisture build-up, and experts advise that your kitchen space should be given sunlight and air daily. However, during the monsoon season, this can be a bit tough to achieve. That's where extractor fans and kitchen chimneys come to the rescue. Give these appliances a good clean before the rainy season to clear out the clutter and make them function more efficiently. Click here for some easy tips to clean your kitchen chimney.
2. Prepare sealable spice jars:
Excess moisture in the air can often ruin your salt or sugar jars, so we recommend replacing your regular jars with airtight glass jars to keep your spices and seasonings moisture-free and germ-free throughout the season, for an extra layer of food safety and hygiene.
Read also: Kitchen Tips: 5 Easy Ways to Keep Food Fresh and Safe During Monsoon
3. Keep healing spices on hand:
Indian kitchens are replete with a wide variety of spices that can be used for more than just cooking. Spices like cinnamon, cloves and dried ginger are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can serve as home remedies for seasonal health issues. Here are some spices to include in your diet this monsoon season:
4. Clean the sink pipes:
Make sure hidden places in your kitchen, especially the sink pipes and drains, are free of dirt and accumulated water, as mosquitoes and flies come from there and contaminate your kitchen and the food stored there. Ensure your health and safety by cleaning them well before the season starts. Here are some easy tips to unclog your kitchen pipes:
5. Stock up on plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables:
The importance of seasonal foods is clear to us all. It is important to include adequate amounts of monsoon fruits and vegetables in your diet to get enough nutrition to fight seasonal illnesses. So, change your diet and shop your groceries accordingly. Here are some of the most common seasonal foods that you should definitely include in your diet:
Wishing you all a happy and healthy monsoon season!
