Health Tip: Tailgate With Safe Food

(HealthDay News) — Heading out to enjoy some tailgating? Pack the proper supplies to safely cook and store your food.

The U.S. Food Safety Administration mentions these tips:

Pack an insulated cooler filled with ice to carry cold meats and perishables — such as lunch meats, potato salad, hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken or sausages.
Place a food thermometer inside the cooler to make sure the temperature stays at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.
Securely wrap all raw meat and poultry to make sure juices don’t leak and contaminate other foods.
Eat hot takeout food within two hours of purchasing. If the outside temperature is above 90 degrees, eat within one hour.
Pack hot foods (such as chili, soup or stew) in a closed, insulated container that was preheated.
If hot food can’t stay hot long enough, pack it cold and reheat to 165 degrees Fahrenheit when it’s time to eat.
Pack additional essentials, such as utensils, grilling tools, a thermometer, fresh water for cleaning and disposable towelettes to keep your hands clean.