Do You Know Summer Food Safety? Part 1

Summer is fast approaching down under! I just returned from a holiday in Iceland and believe me, I am beginning to feel the heat. And I don’t like it! Our food is something that also doesn’t like the heat. In the sweltering heat, food can be ruined and not appropriate for consumption. Read on to figure out how this can be avoided.

Aussies love a good picnic during the summer holidays. Sometimes, we take the food and prepare on the spot or we prepare it at home and eat straightaway. Either way, the transporting method needs to be safe. So, when bringing food to a picnic, consider:

  • Use an insulated cooler filled with ice or frozen gel packs. Frozen food can also be used as a cold source
  • Foods that need to be kept cold include raw meat, poultry, and seafood. Pre-made deli and luncheon meats or sandwiches also need to be kept cool. And, of course, salads, cut up fruit and vegetables and perishable dairy products must be kept in cool climates
  • A full cooler will maintain its cold temperature longer than a partially filled one. When using a cooler, keep it out of the direct sun by placing it in the shade or shelter
  • Avoid opening the cooler repeatedly so that your food stays colder longer

But now that you have safely brought the food to the picnic, how do you safely cook it? Check out part 2, coming next Friday!

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