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As the 4th of July approaches, many Michiganders are gearing up to celebrate with picnics and barbecues. However, mishandling food can quickly spoil the festivities for you and your loved ones. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 6 Americans suffer from foodborne illnesses annually. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) urges Michiganders to practice safe food handling while enjoying the sunny holiday weekend and beyond. Adhering to these simple guidelines will ensure that your outdoor meals remain enjoyable and safe:
Maintain proper hand hygiene when preparing and handling food: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after cooking to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. It’s also essential to cleanse your hands before eating, using soap and water, hand sanitizer, or sanitizing wipes.
Prepare food correctly: Always follow cooking instructions on food labels to ensure safety and flavor. Meats such as chicken and steak should be cooked thoroughly to eliminate any bacteria. Use a food thermometer to verify proper cooking temperatures.
Monitor food temperatures carefully: Food can enter a ‘danger zone’ (between 40°F (4°C) and 140°F (60°C)) where bacteria multiply rapidly. Prevent this by maintaining proper food temperatures after cooking. Keep hot foods warm using heat sources like warming trays or slow cookers. Use ice packs and insulated containers to keep cold foods chilled in summer temperatures.
Store leftovers safely: Properly storing leftover food ensures you can enjoy your barbecue for days to come. Store leftovers in shallow containers and refrigerate promptly to facilitate rapid cooling. Ensure your refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or below, and your freezer to 0°F (-18°C) or below, using a thermometer. Dispose of leftovers promptly to avoid consuming spoiled food. Refer to a Safe Storage Times chart to determine how long specific foods can be safely stored.
If you suspect food poisoning or have symptoms of a foodborne illness, seek immediate medical attention and contact your local health department promptly for assistance.
Safe food practices are essential for a enjoyable 4th of July celebration.
The post Enjoy Michigan’s 4th of July Safely with Expert Tips to Prevent Foodborne Illnesses appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] [[{“value”:”Reading Time: 2 minutes As the 4th of July approaches, many Michiganders are gearing up to celebrate with picnics and barbecues.
The post Enjoy Michigan’s 4th of July Safely with Expert Tips to Prevent Foodborne Illnesses appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] Read More Travel And Tour World Destination News, Disease Control and Prevention, Foodborne Illnesses, MDARD, Michigan, safe food handling