Write a commentThe Oswego County Health Department reminds people to prioritize food safety as they prepare for Independence Day with backyard barbecues, picnics and cookouts.
“Food safety should always be in mind when preparing meals for family and friends—especially during outdoor celebrations,” said Oswego County Public Health Director Vera Dunsmoor. “Hot summer weather creates the perfect environment for bacteria to grow, so it’s critical to follow safe practices for food handling, preparation, cooking and storage.”
Whether you’re grilling burgers, serving potato salad or enjoying fresh fruit, follow these U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) food safety tips to help keep your celebration safe and healthy:
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before handling any food.
- Sanitize surfaces and utensils that come in contact with raw meat or poultry. Clean grills, coolers, cutting boards and tongs before and after use.
- Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw meats separate from ready-to-eat items like salads, buns and fruit.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Keep cold foods below 40 degrees Fahrenheit by storing them in coolers with ice or frozen gel packs.
- Follow the two-hour rule: never leave perishable food out for more than two hours or for more than one hour if it’s 90 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter outside.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that some germs can cause illness within a few hours after consumption, while other germs may take a few days before symptoms begin showing.
Some common symptoms from food poisoning include diarrhea, stomach pains or cramps, nausea, vomiting and fever.
If you experience any symptoms of food poisoning, contact your primary healthcare provider.
For questions about food safety this summer, contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854).
For more information on preventing food poisoning, visit https://www.foodsafety.gov/ or contact the Oswego County Health Department at 315-349-3557.
