How to Keep Foods Fresh at a Picnic or Tailgate Party

Make sure guests have only great memories of your moveable feast by remembering these basics: Keep cold foods cold, hot foods hot, and everything clean. These guidelines are based on recommendations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Wipes
• Meat Thermometers
• Paper Plates
• Plastic Food Containers
• Plastic Utensils
• At Least 2 Coolers
• Paper plates
• Plastic food containers

1. Pack extra plates and utensils to avoid reusing those that have been contaminated by raw meats.

2. Bring premoistened antibacterial towelettes for washing hands before and after handling food.

3. Wrap raw meat securely in plastic bags to prevent cross-contamination.

4. Transfer food or thawed meats from the refrigerator directly to the cooler.

5. Store beverages in a second cooler so you can keep the first cooler closed until time to serve food.

6. Keep cold foods cold: leave them in a cooler filled with ice to keep the temperature below 40 degrees F.

7. Remove raw meats from the cooler only when you are ready to put them directly on the grill.

8. Barbecue meat thoroughly: cook ground meat and pork until it reaches 160 degrees F; poultry, 180 degrees F; and steaks, beef, lamb, veal and roasts, 145 degrees F.

9. Keep cooked meat on the side of the grill rack to keep it hot until served.

10. Throw out any food that has been out for more than two hours - or more than one hour if the temperature is 90 degrees F or higher.

11. Pack leftover foods in small, shallow containers and return them to the cooler for the trip home.

12. Transfer food directly from the cooler to your refrigerator once you get home.

Tips & Warnings

• Pre-microwave meats only if you plan to put them on the grill immediately.

• Keep cold foods cool during your meal by putting the bowl of food into a larger bowl filled with ice.

• Be especially careful with foods containing mayonnaise or eggs. Dishes such as potato salad or deviled eggs should be kept as cold as possible until eaten.