Warm, sunny weather brings out picnickers in droves. Unfortunately, bacteria multiplies in warm weather increasing the likelihood of food borne illness. "Serve foods with acidic ingredients because they slow the growth of bacteria," says Robert Yamarone, chef/owner of GreensUp! in Los Angeles, CA and Cutco Cutlery Advisory Board member. He likes pasta salads with vinaigrettes or lemon/lime juices and dressings and marinades for grilling.
Food Rules for the Perfect Picnic
The following guidelines will keep you and your family safe, healthy and able to enjoy the fun and festivities.
Prep Work
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before preparing any food.
- Prepare a cooler filled with ice or gel packs. Place cooled food directly from the refrigerator into the cooler.
- Pack antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer to use before eating.
- Store raw foods such as burgers, chicken and hotdogs in sealed tupperware or resealable bags. Keep them cold with ice in the cooler.
- Have separate coolers. One for beverages and ice and the other for food. The beverage cooler will be opened and closed often, letting the warmer air in. The food cooler should be packed with ice and opened minimally to keep it at a constant cold.
- Have an instant read thermometer. Food should be kept between 38 - 42 degrees Fahrenheit.
Destination Tips
- When traveling to your destination keep coolers in an air-conditioned car. Avoid the hot trunk which will cause the ice to start melting sooner than it would otherwise and be less effective at keeping your food safe.
- Upon arrival, keep the cooler under a shady tree and if possible, replenish ice throughout the day.
- Drink water frequently to avoid dehydration or heat stroke.
- If barbecuing, don't put cooked items on the same tray that held uncooked food, unless it's been washed thoroughly.
- Don't leave prepared food out for longer than 2 hours. Cut that time in half to only 1 hour if it's extra hot out (above 90 degrees Fahrenheit).
- And above all, If in doubt, toss it out!
Picnic Essentials
Knowing what to bring is half the battle. This go-to list will make sure it's one you win easily!
- Large Blanket
- Coolers
- Food
- Beverages
- Plates
- Cups
- Napkins
- Silverware
- Garbage Bags
- Corkscrew/Bottle Opener (if necessary)
- Plastic Garbage Bags
- Antibacterial Wipes
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray
- First Aid Kit
Fun and Games
Often the best part about a picnic is the informal atmosphere. A relaxed mood puts everyone at ease and sets the stage for a low-key gathering. A few not-so-carefully planned outdoor activities will keep the party going all day long. Come prepared with an assortment of ideas that will work for all age-ranges involved and pack up what you'll need for each. Try a scavenger hunt, tug of war, board or card games, a potato sack race, playing frisbee or an everyone-involved soccer match. Here's to putting together that dream day and creating some perfect memories.
