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Headed to a BBQ? Outdoor meals are fun, but when the weather gets hot, food can spoil faster, which can lead to food borne illnesses or food poisoning. Food poisoning can come with symptoms like nausea or diarrhea, which can become serious. The good news? With a little planning, you can keep your food (and your body) safe in the heat.
Tip #1: Keep Cold Foods Cold
Why it’s important:
Cold temperatures help slow the growth of bacteria–that’s why we keep most foods in the fridge. When food warms up, especially outdoors in the sun, it can grow bacteria and spoil more quickly. That’s why it’s important to keep cold foods below 40°F until it’s time to eat them. Cold foods include anything that’s usually stored in the fridge, like meats, cheeses, and dairy.
How to do it:
- Don’t let cold foods sit in a hot car. Use a cooler or insulated bag when bringing food to a gathering. Add frozen water bottles or ice packs to your cooler to help keep the temperature down.
- Don’t let refrigerated foods sit out for more than 2 hours (or just 1 hour if they’re in direct sunlight, or if it’s over 90°).
- Put leftovers back in the fridge or cooler as soon as you’re done eating.
Tip #2: Watch Out For Particularly Risky Foods
Why it’s important:
Some foods spoil faster than others. Creamy dishes made with eggs or mayonnaise, like potato salad or coleslaw, can grow harmful bacteria such as salmonella or listeria if they sit out for too long.
Cut fruit is also at higher risk for contamination once the peel is removed. That outer layer protects the inside of the fruit. Once it’s cut, it’s easier for bacteria to grow, especially if it was cut with an unclean knife.
How to do it:
- Keep high-risk dishes like potato salad, coleslaw, and cut fruit chilled until it’s time to eat.
- Only put out small portions at a time. Keep the rest in the cooler, and refill as needed to keep food from sitting in the heat too long.
- If something smells off, looks different, or has been sitting out for a long time, don’t risk it. When in doubt, throw it out.
Tip #3: Stay Hydrated
Why it’s important:
Older adults can get dehydrated more easily in hot weather. Dehydration can also make symptoms of food poisoning, like nausea, dizziness, or weakness, feel worse and last longer.
How to do it:
- Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Carry a refillable water bottle with you when you’re outdoors.
- Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol when you’re out in the sun. These can make dehydration worse.
Summary
Summer gatherings should be fun, not stressful. By being mindful of food safety, you can enjoy your meals and protect your health.
If you ever feel sick after eating, especially with nausea, diarrhea, or weakness, reach out to your doctor.
