The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is reminding residents to keep food safety in mind during Labor Day weekend cookouts, picnics and tailgating.
Tim Slawinski, Director of MDARD’s Bureau of Food Safety and Animal Health says in a new release, “Labor Day is a great time to gather with friends and family, and a few food safety steps can help keep everyone healthy.”
Officials have some tips to follow for your weekend picnics, barbeques or tailgating.They include keeping cold food cold and hot foods hot.You should use insulated coolers, ice and frozen gel packs for cold foods and insulated, pre-heated containers for hot foods.You’ll also want to avoid cross contamination by keeping raw meats and the like away from drinks and snacks.
Be sure to also cook food thoroughly and stay clean, by washing hands or using hand wipes before serving or eating food. And be careful with your leftovers.
For more information about how to protect yourself and your loved ones from foodborne illness, visit FoodSafety.gov.
