News

Actions

Three ways to avoid getting sick at your 4th of July BBQ

Posted at 10:50 AM, Jul 04, 2013
and last updated 2013-07-04 12:50:56-04

Your Independence Day celebration more than likely includes a barbecue with friends or family members. Here are some tips that will help you and your fellow revelers avoid foodborne illness:

1> Refrigerate leftovers
Hot temperatures contribute to rapid multiplication of bacteria in your food. Once the food has been served, put the leftovers in a refrigerator or cooler.

2> Cook meat to the right internal temperature
Use a food thermometer to make sure meats have been thoroughly cooked. Check the packaging on your hot dogs, burgers, steaks, pork chops, fish fillets, etc. to see what the internal temperature should be before you take it off the grill.

3> Wash your hands
Washing your hands before you eat is always a good idea and it’s critical for the people who are preparing the food. Make sure everyone at the barbecue has a place to wash up. If there isn’t a sink nearby, use hand sanitizer.

(Source: Food Safety News)

See also: How to avoid fireworks injuries this 4th of July