With the summer season upon us, let’s talk BBQ! One of the best things about summer is being able to grill delicious meals all summer long. Less time in the kitchen and more time outdoors, perfection! This makes it the perfect time to refresh on a few safety tips. Let’s start with…
Food Safety Tips:
- Separate – When shopping, ensure to pick up any meat, poultry & seafood last and keep them separate from the other food in your cart and grocery bags.
- Chill – Keep any meat or seafood refrigerated until you’re ready to grill. When transporting, keep 40°F or below in an insulated cooler.
- Clean – Wash your hands with soap before & after handling meat and/or seafood. Wash any work surfaces, utensils & the grill before and after cooking.
- Cook – Using a food thermometer, ensure your meat is cooked hot enough. 145°F for beef, pork, lamb, veal & fish,160°F for burgers & other ground meat & 165°F for poultry.
*Remember to never cross-contaminate – throw out any marinades & sauces that have touched raw meat juices and remember to place the cooked meat on a clean plate.
*Divide any leftovers into small portions and put in the freezer or fridge within two hours of cooking or one hour, if the temperature outside is above 90°F.
BBQ Safety Tips:
- Place the BBQ at least 3m distance from your home or other structures & not under eaves and overhanging branches.
- Make sure it’s on a level and flat surface.
- Check your BBQ for leaks.
- Always clean it after use.
- Always have a fire extinguisher close by!
Last but not least – enjoy the BBQ season to the fullest!