Score Big This Fall: Essential Food Safety Tips for Your Tailgating Game Plan – High Plains Journal

K-State Food Scientist Shares Tips for Tailgating Safely

As fall sports take off, fans are moving summer picnics from the campground to the parking lots. Grills are fired up, coolers are packed, and excitement fills the air. But while tailgating is fun, safety is key. Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee shares four essential tips to keep your food safe.

1. Wash Your Hands

Clean hands are your first line of defense against germs. “When you’re out in a parking lot, a sink isn’t available,” Blakeslee says. Bring a jug of water and some liquid soap to wash up. Wet wipes or soapy cloths work, too. Hand sanitizer can help, but it’s best used after washing hands first.

2. Keep Foods at Safe Temperatures

Hot foods need to stay at 140°F or warmer, while cold foods should stay below 40°F. This temperature range is known as the “danger zone.” Blakeslee suggests using slow cookers that plug into your car to keep food warm. For cold foods, ice chests are a must—bring separate coolers for raw and ready-to-eat foods.

3. Use a Food Thermometer

A food thermometer is your best friend for ensuring safety. Here are the key temperatures to remember:

• 145°F: Safe for steaks, roasts, and chops.
• 160°F: Minimum for ground meats.
• 165°F: Required for all poultry, including turkey burgers.

Blakeslee emphasizes that color isn’t always a reliable indicator. Sometimes meat looks done but isn’t at the right temperature yet. Always check!

4. Handle Leftovers Carefully

If you have leftovers, don’t let them sit out for more than one hour. In cooler weather, you might extend it to two hours, but on hot days, be cautious. Pack leftovers on ice before heading into the game. If you’re low on ice, consider tossing any food that’s been sitting out too long—it’s better to be safe than sorry.

According to a recent survey by the USDA, nearly 1 in 6 Americans gets sick from foodborne illnesses each year. Awareness and prevention are more important than ever.

Blakeslee leads K-State’s Rapid Response Center for Food Science. For more food safety tips, visit the Rapid Response Center and check out local extension offices in Kansas for more resources. Stay safe and enjoy the game!

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