We generally all think about one thing during the holidays; food. The delicious roast turkey; the creamy gravy; the stuffing and the luscious desserts! Food experts tell us that what we should also be thinking about is Thanksgiving food safety. Or in other words how you handle, prepare, and store your entire Thanksgiving feast. From start to finish, your meal needs to be managed carefully. And while Thanksgiving food tips are important we should remember them throughout the year. So here are some safety tips for your Thanksgiving meal-
• Wash your hands-When it comes to Thanksgiving food safety, and any type of food handling, it is critical to wash those hands. Washing your hands before, during, and after handling different foods will help prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. Also it is crucial to make sure to keep cooking and serving utensils separate and clean. Hot water and soap go a long way to preventing the spread of those dangerous microorganisms that can make you and your guests sick.
• Be a safe shopper-Thanksgiving can be a stressful time with lots to do. You may be tempted to grab just any package at the grocery store but that can be downright dangerous. Never choose packages which are torn or leaking. Don’t buy foods past the sell-by or expiration date (especially if you are shopping ahead of time). Put raw meat and poultry in double plastic bags so it doesn’t have the chance to cross-contaminate with your other groceries. Place refrigerated and frozen items in your cart right before you go to check out. Keep them cool in the car and get right home to place in the fridge or freezer.
• Follow the guidelines-No matter what your main course will be; whether turkey, duck, ham, or lamb, there are basic handling guidelines involved when cooking each of these items. Be sure to refer to the package instructions for the exact thawing and cooking times, as well as temperature when you get ready to cook it. Every one of those above-mentioned meats will cook differently. Keep in mind that even two turkeys will cook at different times depending upon the weight disparity between the two.
• Do not be afraid to ask for help-Most of the large, main menu, holiday Thanksgiving food items now have a toll-free telephone number on the label that you can call twenty four hours a day should you have any questions whatsoever. Do not assume that your question is too silly or mundane. They have friendly operators who will be able to give you a straight answer and alleviate any doubts you may have (and you can rest assured that they have heard your question or comment before).
• Keep hot food hot and cold food cold!-To often in the enjoyment of being with family and friends we may let food go unattended. It is crucial for food safety that items that should be served hot remain that way along with cold food being served cold. Investing in chafing dishes and serving bowls that can hold ice can go a long way toward making sure our food is safe and at the right temperature.
• Handle your leftovers safely-No matter how tempting it is to simply leave the dinner table and go for an after dinner walk (or nap) it is critical not to neglect the careful handling of your leftovers. Dividing large amounts of food into smaller containers helps facilitate faster cooling and then the food can be stored directly into the fridge. Cut the meat off of your turkey breast (legs and thighs can remain whole) and carefully package for the cooler. Side dishes should be dealt with immediately after dinner as well and never left out. When in doubt about any food it may be safer to throw it out. And above all enjoy those Thanksgiving leftovers right away food safety experts recommend eating them within 4 days.
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