Whether it is taking that special someone on a romantic date or getting the family out into the fresh air to enjoy each other’s company, picnic and BBQ’s are a great way to enjoy food. However, forgetting simple steps for health and hygiene can leave everyone remembering the meal from the toilet in sickness rather than fond memories of the time hours later. If you are wondering how to ensure your outdoor meal goes according to plan, here are some simple steps to help:
- When was the last time you cleaned out your picnic basket?
You are not alone if you have stored away your picnic basket, utensils, and cooler for months without washing. Before going on the picnic make sure everything has been washed and not left with residues of the last picnic last month or longer.
- Wash your hands.
Before you start preparing the foods as well as after it is important to wash your hands using either using a hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol or washing your hand with warm soapy water for the time it takes to sing the happy birthday song.
- How do you store the raw meat, seafood, and poultry?
These should always be stored in sealed bags in their own cooler specifically for meats. This is because cross contamination of meats with other foods can increase the risk of food poisoning.
- What else needs refrigerating?
Cheese, dips, and dessert should also be packed and stored in their own cooler. These can be put in the same space as other foods you may like to bring like fruits or vegetables.
- Use separate utensils for raw and cooked meat.
Use a food thermometer to make sure your meat has been cooked to a high enough temperature. The minimum temperature depends on the type and amount of meat you bring, as well as if it has been pre-cooked. Check out FoodSafety.gov for the specific temperature which suits your needs.
- Your picnic food has a time limit!
The perishable foods just mentioned in the last two points should not be left out for more than 2 hours. If you have having a great time on your date or family picnic and after two hours you really want that cheese slice or piece of meat, think of the aftereffects of enjoying the toilet for the rest of the night!
- Finish with an A+ is food safety.
Throw away all perishable foods at the end of the picnic and wash all food containers, utensils, and coolers when you get home.
Take home message:
Enjoying food is more than about the food but the experience of the environment and the people around us. Leave lifelong food memories by being responsible on how you enjoy food and there could be many more dates or picnics with the family to follow.
