Who doesn’t enjoy a summer picnic or barbecue with family and friends? Summer is a great time to get outside and enjoy these warm weather events but these events also present opportunities for foodborne bacteria to thrive. As our food heats up with summer temperatures, bacteria multiply rapidly.

To protect yourself, your family and friends from foodborne illness during the warmer months, safe food handling when eating outdoors is critical. Read my blogs for simple food safety guidelines for transporting your food to the picnic, as well as preparing and serving the food safely once the festivities have begun (posts pending, unless actively linked).

• Food Safety: Tips for picnic site preparation (read on/after June 26)
• Food Safety: How to pack and transport food (read on/after July 3)
• Food Safety: Safe grilling tips (read on/after July 10)
• Food Safety: Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot (read on/after July 17)

RESOURCES

• www.fightbac.org
• www.foodsafety.gov
• www.cdc.gov/foodsafety

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