Keeping It Cool

Picnics, cookouts, reunions and camping are activities many enjoy when the warm weather hits. Unfortunately, warm weather is also the time when bacteria grow best and prolonged high temperatures can be dangerous to food, said USU Family and Consumer Science Agent Clint Albrecht. Deli foods or foods containing meat, eggs or dairy ingredients should not be left at or above room temperature for more than two hours. When transporting food, pack the cooler so it is full, and distribute ice evenly. Keep the ice chest as cool as possible by wrapping it in a beach towel or blanket, and keep it in the shade.

For more information, contact USU Family and Consumer Science Agent Clint Albrecht, 435-438-6450.