As Super Bowl Sunday approaches, many of us look forward to tasty snacks and exciting games. But while you enjoy the fun, it’s important to keep food safety in mind to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
According to the USDA, many popular Super Bowl foods—like pizza, wings, and chili—should not sit out for longer than two hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly in the “Danger Zone,” which is between 40°F and 140°F. This puts you and your guests at risk for foodborne illnesses.
Dr. Mindy Brashears from the USDA emphasizes the need for vigilance. She advises: “When serving food, make sure it stays at the right temperature. This helps protect everyone from getting sick.”
So, what can you do to keep your Super Bowl feast safe? Here are some straightforward tips:
- Use insulated bags for takeout if it will take more than an hour to get home.
- Serve hot foods at 140°F or above and reheat leftovers to 165°F.
- Try to keep food in small batches, so it doesn’t sit out too long.
- Check temperatures with a food thermometer—this is the best way to ensure safety.
Recent data shows that foodborne illnesses affect millions of Americans every year. In fact, the CDC estimates about 48 million people get sick from food each year. So, being careful during gatherings like the Super Bowl can make a big difference.
Another key point is cleaning. Always wash your hands and surfaces before preparing food. This helps prevent cross-contamination. Follow the four basic steps: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.
Lastly, if you ever have questions about food safety, you can reach out to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline. They are available weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time.
By keeping safety in mind, you can enjoy a fun and tasty Super Bowl without any worries. Happy snacking!
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