Game Day Food Safety

Poultry products, such as chicken wings, should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 F as measured using a food thermometer. Ground meat and egg dishes should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 F. If you are cooking foods that have been commercially processed, be sure to read the package instructions to ensure the food is adequately cooked. Most processed foods recommend cooking to an internal temperature of 165 F.

Holding and serving food

Hot food must be kept above 140 F and cold food must be kept below 40 F to prevent the growth of illness causing bacteria. Any food held at 40-140 F (the danger zone) must be discarded after two hours. To keep food out of the danger zone, use chaffing dishes, slow cookers, or warming trays to keep food hot. For cold foods, nest serving bowls into larger bowls filled with ice.

Wrapping up

Be sure to refrigerate or freeze any leftovers within two hours. Large quantities of food such as leftover casseroles, stews, or cuts of meat, should be divided into smaller portions to ensure rapid cooling. For information on how long food can be kept refrigerated or frozen, refer to the FoodKeeper app which can be found at www.foodsafety.gov/keep-food-safe/foodkeeper-app or downloaded onto your Apple or Android device. Be sure to always reheat leftovers to 165 F before consuming.