Keep your cookouts safe with these tips:
- Always marinate foods in the refrigerator — not on the kitchen counter or outdoors. Separate a portion of the marinade before adding it to raw meat if you plan to use it as a sauce on cooked food.
- Always use a food thermometer and cook food to the safe temperature
- Once food is cooked, keep it hot until it’s ready to serve. Grilled food can be kept hot until served by moving it to the side of the grill rack, just away from the coals. This keeps it hot but prevents overcooking.
- Don’t reuse platters or utensils, this can allow bacteria from raw food to transfer to the cooked food. Have clean dishes and utensils ready for when the food is cooked.
