Short Answer 
To prevent Giardia infection, ensure the use of safe water supplies by using filtered or boiled water, avoid home canned foods to reduce contamination risk, and choose pasteurized products while steering clear of wild mushrooms. Proper practices in food safety can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
Step 1: Use Safe Water Supplies
The first essential step in preventing a Giardia infection is to ensure that you only use safe water supplies. Giardia is often found in contaminated water sources, so drinking or cooking with untreated water can lead to infection. To maintain safety, consider using:
- Filtered or purified water for drinking and cooking.
- Bottled water from reliable sources when in doubt.
- Boiling water for at least one minute to kill possible parasites.
Step 2: Avoid Home Canned Foods
Another crucial measure is to steer clear of home canned foods. Improper canning practices can foster an environment where harmful bacteria, including Giardia, can thrive. To prevent contamination from home canned goods, remember to:
- Use proper canning techniques if you choose to can foods yourself.
- Opt for commercially canned products that meet safety standards.
- Check for any signs of spoilage before consuming canned items.
Step 3: Skip Wild Mushrooms and Choose Pasteurized Products
The last step is to avoid cooking with wild mushrooms and to prefer pasteurized products. Certain wild mushrooms can contain toxins and parasites that pose health risks. To minimize your risk, always:
- Buy mushrooms from trusted retailers instead of foraging for wild ones.
- Use pasteurized products, such as milk, to reduce the likelihood of infection.
- Educate yourself about safe food choices to stay informed and healthy.