If you think the wintertime presents eating challenges, just think about summertime parties, picnics and boat rides. Everywhere you turn we are celebrating the warm weather with food and beverages! Eating right becomes not just a challenge for your figure but also a challenge to your health as foodborne illnesses can hide in your neighbor’s tuna salad or the fresh cut melon you just served. Follow these suggestions and you are more likely to avoid fat and calorie traps as well as foodborne illnesses. And, always offer to bring something wherever you may be going. Not only is it gracious but you’ll also ensure that there is something healthy and safe for you to eat!
Healthy Fare Entrees:
Sides:
Dessert:
Snacks:
Food Safety
Like salad bars without sneeze guards (the glass shields that usually protect these), picnic foods are often handled by many people. The more people handling food, the increased risk for bacterial contamination. In addition, food is often cooked in large quantities and not cooled right away. When food is placed in larger containers, spots often remain warm for long periods of time. Bacteria thrive in these warm temperatures. Making matters worse, many people leave food out for too long. Hot food is meant to be kept hot and cold food cold but oftentimes at picnics and parties, the necessary equipment to keep food at the correct temperature isn’t available. Make certain you do your best to keep food at the correct temperature and if anything looks like it has been sitting out too long, toss it.
Some additional tips:
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