Whether you’re planning a small summer cookout or a big holiday celebration, a camping trip or a potluck dinner, make sure your plans include food safety.

Parties and Large Groups

When food for parties and large groups is prepared in different locations by different people, how can you make sure that everyone prepares and stores food safely? Consult these guidelines:

Bag Lunches for School and Work

Bacteria that cause food poisoning grow rapidly at temperatures between 40 °F and 140°F. To make sure perishable lunches and snacks are safe, pack them with two cold sources. Store them in a refrigerator or cooler on arrival, if one is available.

Spring Holidays

Whether you celebrate Easter, Passover or Mother’s Day, spring is a time for hosting holiday lunches or dinners with your family and friends, or for eating out. Follow these simple tips for food safety.

Summer and Vacation

Foodborne illnesses tend to increase during the summer months because bacteria multiply faster when it’s warm. People also cook outside, away from refrigerators, thermometers, and sinks more often. Stay healthy and safe by following these food safety guidelines:

Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is the most popular sporting event in the United States, but some would say that it’s about the food as much as the football. Follow these food safety tips to help you keep your chili, wings, and other nibbles safe and delicious:

Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving meal is the largest that many cooks prepare each year. The following information may help you prepare your special Thanksgiving meal and help you countdown to the holiday.

Weddings

When planning the perfect wedding menu, you can't afford to forget food safety. From the engagement party to the honeymoon, remember these food safety to-do's before saying your "I Do's". Whether catering or DIY, learn how to keep your guests safe.

Winter Holidays

No matter what's on your menu, food is always a central part of holiday festivities. Whether you're an experienced cook, a first-time party host, or bringing a dish to a potluck dinner check out these resources for ensuring that holiday buffets and mail-order food are free from the germs that cause foodborne illness:

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