Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit clinic providing health and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma, promotes food safety month.
Teaming up to tackle food safety is important when planning tailgating events.
Having a game plan is key to protecting yourself from foodborne illness. Make sure you have enough gear, including coolers, clean utensils, fresh water, soap, and your most valuable player, the food thermometer, to tackle all of your food safety needs.
“Tailgating food safety is very similar to preparing for an outdoor picnic,” said Katie Brown, OKCIC RD/LD Dietitian. “Take into account the temperature of the insulated cooler and placement of raw meats when packing the cooler; careful placement will keep food safe from cross contamination and nasty bacteria.”
According to the United States Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA), holding the food temperature is vital when transferring perishable foods from one place to another. USDA recommends when bringing raw meats, such as chicken, hamburger patties, or sausage, to place them in an insulated cooler with packed ice. Make sure the cooler is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
Additionally, USDA also recommends to securely wrap the meat and place them at the bottom of the cooler so their juice will not cross contaminate other prepared foods.
When cooking meats, use your food thermometer to measure the temperature of the meats internal temperature. Cooking meats thoroughly will defeat your opponent… bacteria.
“Using a food thermometer will not only protect you from harmful bacteria, but will also help reduce overcooking,” Brown said.
Tailgate leftovers are a part of the game day package. According to USDA, keeping food at unsafe temperatures are prime causes of foodborne illness. Always refrigerate perishable foods within two hours to defend against foodborne illnesses. If it has been out for more than two hours, or more than one hour over 90 degrees Fahrenheit, throw it out!
In the end, enjoy the tailgate, eat safe food and root for your favorite team. Following your food safety game plan will score you the winning touchdown, which is safety.
About Oklahoma City Indian Clinic
Oklahoma City Indian Clinic was established in 1974 to provide excellent health care and wellness services to American Indians in central Oklahoma. The clinic staff cares for more than 20,000 patients from over 200 federally recognized tribes every year. American Indians can receive a range of services, including medical, dental, pediatrics, prenatal, pharmacy, optometry, physical fitness, nutrition, family programs and behavioral health services. For more information, please call (405) 948-4900 or visit www.okcic.com.
