Super Bowl parties are all about fun, friends, and food. But as you enjoy those spicy chicken wings and hot chili, remember to keep food safety in mind. The USDA has some important tips to help you avoid any foodborne illnesses while celebrating.
Why Food Safety Matters
“When food is served throughout the Super Bowl, it’s easy to lose track of how long it’s been out,” says Dr. Mindy Brashears, USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety. Keeping your food at the right temperatures helps keep your guests safe.
Many popular Super Bowl snacks like pizza, chicken wings, and chili should not sit at room temperature for more than two hours. This is known as the “Danger Zone,” where bacteria can thrive.
Top Food Safety Tips for Game Day
Handle Takeout Carefully
- Use insulated bags for delivery during long travels.
- Serve food quickly or split larger portions into smaller ones to keep them fresh.
- Keep hot foods at 140°F or more and reheat to 165°F.
Avoid the Danger Zone
- Serve smaller batches of food throughout the game to avoid leaving items out too long.
- Discard food that’s been at room temperature for more than two hours. If you want to keep leftovers, refrigerate or freeze them right after the game.
Use a Food Thermometer
- Make sure your meat reaches safe internal temperatures:
- 145°F for whole cuts, with a three-minute rest
- 160°F for ground meat
- 165°F for poultry
- Check multiple wings if you’re serving them; if one is undercooked, the whole batch needs more cooking.
- Make sure your meat reaches safe internal temperatures:
Follow Basic Food Safety Steps
- Clean: Always wash your hands before and after handling food.
- Separate: Avoid cross-contamination. Use different utensils and boards for raw and cooked foods.
- Cook: Use a thermometer to ensure everything is cooked properly.
- Chill: Refrigerate leftovers within two hours to keep them safe.
Recent studies show that at least 48 million Americans get sick from foodborne illnesses each year. That’s one in six people! Taking precautions this Super Bowl can help you enjoy the game without worry.
If you have any questions about food safety, you can contact the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854). They’re available Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time.
Enjoy your Super Bowl party, and stay safe while indulging in your favorite snacks!
