Temperatures are soaring across the United States with many places breaking records almost daily. It has been some of the hottest days I can remember with little breaks in the temperatures including even at night when often we get some cooling. Food safety in extreme temperatures is so important and can make or break a fun time in a matter of only minutes.
We absolutely love to entertain when the weather permits, but with this heat honestly it has been the last thing on my mind. The idea of standing over a grill just doesn’t sound that appealing and honestly no one wants to sit outside to eat no matter the amount of shade. Regardless there will be times this summer that we do entertain outdoors and I am always wanting to brush up on my tips for food safety in extreme temperatures.
Uncooked food or leftovers that haven’t been stored properly can play host to microorganisms. If you consume these germs, you can get very sick. Scientists know of more than 250 viruses, parasites, and bacteria that can infest food items and cause illness in people. Other types of food poisoning are caused by chemicals or other contaminants that get on the surface of the food.
The organisms that cause food poisoning multiply quickly when food is at room temperature or warmer. During the warmest months of the year, food can quickly get into the temperature range that promotes microbe growth.
Refrigerate promptly. Get food into the refrigerator before it has a chance to attract new germs. Perishable items should go into the fridge within two hours if the temperature is below 90 degrees. If the weather is hotter than that, refrigerate food within an hour. Keep your fridge set at 40 degrees or cooler to prevent microbes from growing.
Also be sure to prepare for power outages if by chance a nasty summer storm comes up and you happen to lose electricity. You don’t want to run the risks of not only having no power but also being sick from a foodborne illness at the same time. That would be like living in a nightmare.
No matter how you plan to spend you summer be it outside grilling and chilling or indoors surrounded by fans and the air conditioning with your feet propped up enjoying a nice cool beverage prepare to be safe by following the tips mentioned above but also by keeping an eye on Make Food Safe for the latest food safety tips. Have an awesome summer and most of all STAY COOL and hydrated.
By: Samatha Cooper
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