With graduation time coming in a few months, the planning for graduation parties have started. When it comes to large parties, it’s important to remember food & health information when handling and preparing food. There are a few key tips to keep in mind while handling your delicious appetizers and party food. Below are some tips to help.
Check Internal Temperature
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), almost 600 million get sick after eating contaminated food each year. One of the main reasons is that food isn’t cooked to the correct internal temperature. Make sure you check the internal temperature of all meats before serving, as well as other foods, especially if you’re unsure of their preparation. One of the best food & health information tidbits to keep you safe includes using a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of foods. Internal thermometers can be found in most kitchen supply stores and should be used when cooking any type of food.
Keep Hands Clean
Dirty hands can easily spread bacteria and cause foodborne illnesses. Always make sure you wash your hands before handling any type of food, especially if they have been in contact with raw meats. While you might be tempted to use hand sanitizer, it’s always better to have running water and soap to eliminate any raw meat, egg, and dairy residue from your hands.
Keep Foods Separated
When preparing foods, it’s important to keep raw meats, fruits & vegetables, and other foods separate. This will help reduce the risk of cross-contamination. Make sure you use separate cutting boards and utensils for each type of food. Additionally, it’s best to prepare everything right before serving, as leaving prepared foods out can increase the risk of bacteria growth. If you do prepare food ahead of time, refrigerate them before serving and reheat them before the party. Consider cold appetizers like veggie platters or fruit salads that don’t require any type of reheating.
Don’t Leave Food Out
Leaving food out for long periods of time can increase the risk of bacteria growth. This is especially true with hot and cooked foods, as they are ideal environments for bacteria to thrive. If you do leave food out, make sure it is not left out for more than two hours. After that time frame, it’s best to throw away any leftover food instead of risk getting sick. Use this food & health information to stay safe when celebrating your graduates. Following these tips can help keep you and your family healthy, as well as prevent foodborne illnesses. For additional food safety precautions and procedures, call TSC Associates today to find out about our ServSafe Food Manager and ServSafe Food Handler training.
