Food safety tips for barbecue season

A few simple rules can help keep your barbecue safe and enjoyable. istockphoto

Barbecues and picnics are synonymous with warm weather, and following food safety rules will help ensure that everyone stays healthy.

"First and foremost, remember that the 'time-temperature danger zone' is between 40 degrees F and 140 degrees F," said Rebecca Blake, director of clinical nutrition at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Hospital in New York City. "Foods should not be left in this temperature range for more than two hours. If it is, it should be thrown away immediately."

On very hot days, when temperatures top 90 degrees F, food should be left out for no more than one hour, she noted.

"Leaving food out too long at room [or outdoor] temperatures can cause bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, E. coli and Campylobacter) to grow to dangerous levels that can make us sick -- usually with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea," Blake said.

Next: How to keep meat from making you sick

Food temperatures

Use a meat thermometer to make sure foods are cooked thoroughly. Jeff Cleveland

Blake recommends using a meat thermometer to be certain that foods are fully cooked. Internal temperatures should be at least 165 degrees F for poultry, at least 160 degrees F for burgers and egg products, and at least 140 degrees F for steaks and chops, she said.

Next: How long can food sit out?

Hot or cold

Potato salad and other foods should not be left out of the refrigerator for longer than two hours. RoJo Images

Closely monitor how long foods have been out of the cooler/fridge or the oven/barbecue. Refrigerate or freeze uneaten food before the two-hour mark. If in doubt, throw it out, Blake said.

Next: The risk of cross-contamination

Avoid cross-contamination

Don't mix raw and cooked foods on platters or cutting boards. Liv Friis-Larsen

Use separate platters, cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked food. Thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables that will be eaten raw.

Next: Wash up

Wash up

Wash hands thoroughly before and after touching foods. Bob Gubbins

Always wash your hands before preparing or serving food, and always wash your hands between touching raw food and other food items or surfaces.

Next: Know when to say when

Don't overdo it

Enjoy in moderation. istockphoto

Try not to overeat. Listen to your body and when you are gently full, stop eating, Blake said.

Next: Drink wisely

Drink wisely

Drink lots of water and limit alcohol intake. istockphoto

Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and limiting your intake of alcohol, which can cause dehydration.

Read: Foodborne illness: The most guilty foods list

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