Watch out for foodborne illnesses on Super Bowl Sunday

Food safety is an important part of serving food for Super Bowl Sunday.

Football and parties go together like bread and butter. Just like feeding a crowd and keeping food safe go together to keep the everyone healthy.

Prepare the wings, chili and hot toppings for your nachos in the oven or stove top. Make sure these items are cooked to the minimum internal temperatures. Chicken and other poultry products should be cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit, while ground beef should be cooked to 155 F. Reheat previously prepared items to 165 F. also.

While you are rounding out your tailgate menu, plan to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.   

After proper cooking, hot foods can be transferred to appliances that will keep the food hot (at least 135 F.) such as slow cookers or chafing pans. Top bowls of ice with platters of cold food to keep cold.

Keep self-serve buffets stocked with plenty of clean plates, silverware, napkins and ice for cold beverages. Michigan State University Extension recommends you provide tongs, spoons, ladles, spatulas, etc. for guests to serve themselves without touching the food. Have an area for trash receptacles for plastic and paper products so party goers can easily clean up after themselves. Change out the trash bags as they get filled and remove them from the area.

A little advance planning can make your tailgate party scrumptious, healthy and food safe too! 

Did you find this article useful?