Are you ready for those goodbye-to-summer parties? Roxanne Davis, registered dietitian at Beaufort Memorial, has the following tips for keeping food at the festivities safe—and you and your fellow party-goers healthy.
Wash hands frequently.
The number-one way to prevent spread of infection, foodborne or otherwise, is to wash your hands! Wash hands in warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before handling food and after using the bathroom, playing with pets, etc.
Need an easy way to remember how long to wash? Sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
Use tongs.
When handling foods that are “ready to eat,” such as bread, washed vegetables and fruits or cooked foods, it is best to use tongs or gloves to minimize the risk of contamination .
Follow safe methods for thawing meat (including meat alternatives).
Food must be kept at safe temperatures during the thawing process. Safe methods include thawing in the refrigerator, thawing under cold running water or thawing in the microwave on the defrost setting. If thawing with cold water or in the microwave, food must be cooked immediately.
Separate raw meats from other foods.
When grocery shopping, separate raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods in the shopping cart, in grocery bags and in the refrigerator. Cross-contamination can easily spread bacteria.
Cook meats to the proper temperature.
Cooking meats to the appropriate internal temperature kills the harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. Use a food thermometer to ensure food is done; color is not a reliable indicator.
Safe minimum temperatures are:
- 145° F for steak, pork and seafood
- 155° F for ground meat
- 165° F for poultry
Keep food at the right temperature for the right length of time while serving.
Food should be kept between 40° F and 140° F for no more than four hours. If temperature is not being monitored, do not leave food out for more than two. If it is 90° F or hotter outside, do not leave food out for more than one hour.
The foods that are safe to leave unrefrigerated during events include whole fruits and vegetables, hard cheese (such as Parmesan), chips and crackers, bread, peanut butter, jelly, mustard, olives and pickles.
If despite your precautions you do end up with tummy troubles, Beaufort Memorial offers options for quick and convenient care.
BMH Care Anywhere
See a board-certified provider for only $67 using your smart phone, tablet or computer. Download the iOS app, Android mobile app or visit the website.
Express Care
Either walk in to be seen at one of our Express Care clinics or save your spot in line with Express Care online check-in.