As summer rolls in, it brings not just sunshine and outdoor fun, but also the risk of foodborne illnesses due to the increased heat. The Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department has stepped up to offer crucial guidance on summer food safety to help families navigate cookouts and picnics without compromising their health. With rising temperatures, maintaining the integrity of perishable foods becomes more challenging, making it essential for everyone to be vigilant about food safety practices.
Monitoring Refrigerator and Freezer Temperatures
The first tip from the Health Department is to keep a close eye on your refrigerator and freezer temperatures. Appliances can struggle to maintain optimal conditions during the sweltering months, so it’s vital to regularly use a thermometer to check that your refrigerator stays at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, while the freezer should remain at 0 degrees Fahrenheit or below. If you notice that your appliances are not functioning properly, it’s advisable to have them serviced immediately. Taking precautions with storage can mean the difference between a safe meal and a potentially serious health risk.
Smart Grocery Shopping
Another important piece of advice is to make grocery shopping your last stop before heading home. On hot summer days, temperatures inside your car can soar, leading perishable items to spoil quickly. It’s crucial to refrigerate or freeze meat, poultry, seafood, dairy, and other perishable foods within two hours of purchase. If the temperature outside exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit, aim to refrigerate within the first hour. Moreover, keep in mind that once tomatoes and melons are cut, they should also be refrigerated promptly.
Marinating Safely
When preparing meals, always remember to marinate food in the refrigerator rather than on the kitchen counter. This simple step is key to preventing harmful bacteria from flourishing, which is particularly important when handling meats.
Plan Your Food Preparation
To further ensure food safety, consider your food preparation techniques. Minimize the frequency of opening and closing your refrigerator doors. This extends beyond merely keeping food cold; it also helps maintain the appliance’s overall efficiency and safety.
Thawing Methods
Thawing food safely is another essential aspect of food safety that the Health Department emphasizes. Never leave food out to thaw at room temperature. Instead, opt for safer methods: thaw food in your refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. This point is crucial, as food thawed in cold water or in the microwave must be cooked immediately to prevent bacterial growth.
Cooling Down Leftover Food
After cooking, remember to cool leftover food quickly. Large portions should be divided into smaller containers, ideally no deeper than 2-3 inches, to facilitate faster cooling. Utilizing an ice bath can also help in this regard. Be sure to keep the food uncovered until it has cooled down sufficiently.
Leftover Management
Leftovers should be refrigerated right after a meal. It’s vital to discard perishable foods that have been out at room temperature for more than two hours, as this dramatically increases the risk of foodborne illness.
Transporting Food Safely
Planning a picnic or outdoor gathering? Ensure that you transport perishable foods in a cooler packed with ice. This not only maintains the proper temperature but also safeguards against contamination.
Outdoor Serving Practices
When serving food outdoors, aim to position the food service area in shaded locations. If you’re hosting a buffet, consider serving perishable items over ice. This keeps the food cool and safe for consumption. Discard any perishable items that have been outside of temperature control for more than an hour if it’s over 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department serves several counties, including Wood, Wirt, Calhoun, Pleasants, Ritchie, and Roane. If you’re in the area and require more information or assistance, their main office is located at 1824 Murdoch Avenue in Parkersburg, and they are open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can also reach them at 304-485-7374 or visit their website at movhd.com.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can enjoy a safe and delicious summer filled with all the joys that spring and summer have to offer. Prioritizing food safety not only protects your health but also ensures that your gatherings are remembered for the good times shared rather than a harmful bout of food poisoning. With the right preparation and precautions, you can relish the delightful tastes of summer without any worries.
