Holiday Buffet Safety

Many people celebrate the holidays by having an open house which could include a buffet table of favorite holiday treats. Many times this kind of food service can invite bacteria that can cause food borne illness. Keep in mind the following suggestions when celebrating this way.

• Do not let perishable food items sit out for more than two hours. Once bacteria contaminates food it will double every 20 minutes when allowed to sit out at room temperature
• Set food out in small amounts and replace often
• Do not add "new" food items to a dish that has been sitting out for more >than two hours, just replace it
• Use tongs, toothpicks or other utensils to help minimize hand contact with "finger foods"
• Cold foods can be kept cold by placing serving dishes on ice
• Hot foods served from steam tables or chaffing dishes should be kept above 140° F

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