Summertime is the time for park picnics, backyard cookouts, campsite grilling, and outdoor cooking fun! It is one of the many joys of beautiful Georgia summer weather. We Georgians love to cook outdoors. Although fun and even traditional, it is important to remember how to safely prepare food for others; and especially in the summertime heat.
Continue reading to catch up on some advice on safe food preparation for outdoor cooking.
? Wash Your Hands
This is the first, and most obvious, step to preparing food for people outside is washing your hands. Consistent hand washing can ensure that you are not spreading any salmonella from raw meats, or germs from other places. Keep your hands clean while chopping fruits, handling raw meat, shaping burger patties, and mixing beverages.
? Keep a Clean Work Station
On top of washing your hands, be sure to sanitize all your working stations. This means thoroughly cleansing cutting boards, tables, counter tops, and of course, dishware and utensils. Disease, bacteria, and viruses can easily be spread through dirty work stations. Using a clean wet rag dipped in a light sanitizing solution helps eliminate this possibility.
? Maintain Food Temperatures
When serving food outdoors, especially buffet style occasions, it is crucial to keep certain categories of food at their appropriate temperatures to avoid food borne illnesses and food poisoning. For example, be sure cold foods such as fruits, vegetables, yogurts, dips, anything containing sour cream, cheese, or dairy, and beverages, remain on ice and cool. This prevents bacteria from growing and making someone sick, as well as, keeps your guests and family cool from the heat. Other vulnerable foods should be covered and protected from insects, leaves, bird droppings, and animals. Cover chips, side dishes, meat trays, and anything else that can be contaminated.
If outdoor cooking isn’t for you, no worries! You can still host a fun, outdoor family cookout and fun while keeping all food and buffet items indoors. There is never any fuss about making your plate indoors and eating outside to enjoy a nice summer evening. For more tips on how to prepare food for outdoor cooking, call a professional for advice.
Who to Trust for Safe Georgia Catering
Call Food for Thought Catering at 678-340-0510 for Georgia catering services that won’t disappoint! We are skilled culinary professionals who specialize in full-service catering. You can customize everything down to the very last detail, from menus and service, to themes, décor, and more. Call 678-340-0510 to request a free consultation, today!
