PEORIA, Ill. – With families and friends getting together for 4th of July cookouts over the next few days, the Peoria City/County Health Department says it’s important to keep cold foods cold…and hot foods hot.
The Health Department’s Stephanie Streight says there’s definitely a point when cold foods should be thrown out.
“A lot of times, if it’s been more than a couple of hours, especially if it’s 90 degrees or higher, we don’t normally recommend keeping those foods. At that point, it’s obviously getting out of temperature, and getting into that temperature danger zone,” Streight says.
In the heat, it’s also important to be careful when handling meats, seafood and poultry, including eggs. Serving meat that’s under cooked can cause people to get sick.
“Anytime hot foods are held in that temperature danger zone of 41 to 135 degree Fahrenheit, that’s where bacteria and pathogens exponentially grow,” Streight says.
As a heatwave continues into the 4th of July weekend, it’s also important to stay hydrated, especially if you’ll be out in the sun.
Streight says the heat can especially take a toll on young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
“Making sure you’re drinking a lot of water, staying hydrated, finding shade wherever you can. A lot of times that direct sun is what makes people feel pretty sick,” Streight says.
To learn more about food safety and avoiding heat-related illness, click HERE.
Comments