Food Safety and Fireworks

Grilling is a cherished tradition on the 4th of July, ensuring food is cooked thoroughly is crucial to eliminate harmful bacteria.

Image credits: Unsplash

The 4th of July is a time for celebration with friends and family, often centered around outdoor picnics and barbecues. However, amidst the festivities, it is important to prioritize food safety to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Grilling is a beloved tradition on the 4th of July, but cooking food thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria is essential. Shannon Fitzgerald, PharmD, Pharmacist/Toxicologist, and medical contributor for Drugwatch, provides insights into maintaining safety while enjoying the festivities,

“Since bacteria in food multiply faster at temperatures between 40 degrees F and 140 degrees F. Following the FDA Prevention Tips above and being aware of temperatures while picnicking or barbecuing are essential to avoid foodborne illness. Hamburgers should be cooked to 160 degrees F (brown all the way through) and chicken should be cooked to at least 165 degrees F. Keeping any materials that have come into contact with raw meat very clean is essential (avoiding cross-contamination!).”

Foodborne illness, commonly known as food poisoning, arises from consuming food contaminated with bacteria, toxins, parasites, viruses, chemicals, or other harmful agents. Despite the US boasting one of the safest food supplies globally, federal estimates indicate approximately 48 million cases of foodborne illness annually. This statistic translates to roughly 1 in 6 Americans falling ill from tainted food, leading to an estimated 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths each year.

Fitzgerald advises, “To effectively eliminate harmful bacteria, common foodborne pathogens, the FDA recommends thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (consider carrying moist disposable towelettes if running water is unavailable), keeping raw and cooked foods separate, marinating food in the refrigerator rather than on the counter, using a food thermometer to ensure thorough cooking, promptly refrigerating or freezing food (avoid leaving food out of coolers or off the grill for more than 2 hours; 1 hour in temperatures exceeding 90°F), and maintaining hot foods at or above 140°F and cold foods at or below 40°F.”

“Buffets can also be a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly maintained. Choose only reputable buffets that avoid letting food sit out for long periods,” Shannon Fitzgerald PharmD

Image credits: Unsplash

Foodborne illness occurs when individuals ingest food or drinks contaminated with pathogens, chemicals, or toxins. Factors such as a weakened immune system or age can exacerbate the severity and symptoms of food poisoning.

“When reheating food, it should reach 165 degrees F and foods like chicken salad and desserts should be kept in individual serving dishes and placed directly on ice or in a shallow container set in a deep ice-filled pan. A little extra preparation before a fun event can keep you and summer party-goers healthy for the whole season,” emphasizes Fitzgerald.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can guarantee that your 4th of July BBQ is delicious and safe for everyone to enjoy. Taking these precautions with food handling and cooking temperatures significantly reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses, ensuring a memorable celebration.

References

FDA. Foodborne Pathogens. Updated May 3, 2023. Accessed July 2, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/food/outbreaks-foodborne-illness/foodborne-pathogens#:~:text=Foodborne%20illness%20occurs%20when%20people,weakened%20immune%20system%20and%20age.