How many times have you heard “Is it done yet?” when you are fixing a meal? It doesn’t matter if it is the Thanksgiving turkey or a grilled burger or pork chops – they can’t seem to wait until it is done to eat. It is true that when cooking meats you need to use […]
September is National Food Safety Education Month!
With the high number of food borne illnesses mentioned regularly in the news, reminding individuals, families, and food service staff about the basics of food safety is very important. Every time we turn around there are new cases of E. coli, listeria, salmonella, or foods that have been contaminated by potential allergens. What are the […]
Food Safety at Fairs or Festivals
Summer and early fall are filled with weekends of community fairs and festivals. Many of these events provide an opportunity to highlight music, nature, and achievements of both youth and adults. While these things are great – it is the food that really gets everyone so excited! Think “Rib Fest”, “Chili Cook-off”, funnel cakes, milk […]
Safe Picnics & Cook-Outs
Memorial Day Weekend, which traditionally marks the beginning of summer, is almost here and many of you will probably celebrate with picnics and cook-outs. This time of year also marks the re-emergence of some questionable food safety behaviors. If you could simply tuck a refrigerator under one arm and take it with you, there […]
Easter is on it’s Way……
What’s your favorite food for Easter? Is there one food that is always served as a family tradition? Your family members may request foods that you don’t usually prepare. You may also have help in the kitchen as you cook and dye eggs. As a general review for all food preparation, remember 4 basic rules […]
Outdoor Grilling – Think Safety!
The weather has been nice enough lately to clean up the grill and move outdoors for a meal. Keep in mind some simple steps to keep you and your family safe from foodborne illness: CLEAN – Wash hands and surfaces often. SEPARATE – Don’t cross-contaminate. Keep raw meat and poultry apart from cooked foods. COOK […]