When the sun finally reappears for the summer, we can’t help being so overjoyed that we want to spend every possible second lapping it up.
As a result sales of things like outdoor furniture, decking, and conservatories really rocket at this time of year.
Also very popular year in year out are barbecues. There is nothing like the smell of charcoal burning, and food sizzling on a barbecue to tantalise the taste buds. It’s a great way to bring a bit of the house outside, and makes for a great evening with friends.
But of course there are a few things to look out for while playing Jamie Oliver at the barbecue.
Stay clean
Always be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy, water before preparing food and handling raw meat.
Clean utensils, cutting boards, and countertops with hot, soapy, water before and after preparing each food item.
Think hygiene
Be sure to place cooked meat on a clean plate.
Never reuse a cutting board, service platter, or utensil that has previously held uncooked meat, poultry, or seafood until it has been washed with hot, soapy, water.
Many retailers sell colour-coded cutting boards that make preparing uncooked and ready-to-eat food easy to keep separate, and help to avoid cross-contamination.
To prevent juices from leaking, store all meat products in separate containers or bags that seal.
Cooking power
Use a food thermometer to ensure thorough cooking. Meat and poultry brown quickly on a grill, and bacteria can survive in undercooked meat.
Roasts and steaks should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F while whole poultry should reach an internal temperature of 180°F. Cook fish until it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Chill out
Refrigerate food promptly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
While outside temperatures may feel comfortable to your skin, warm, moist, air will promote bacterial growth.
Storing food in shallow food containers is the best option to hinder the growth of bacteria.
If a refrigerator is not available, store foods in a shady area and on ice. Never leave food out for more than two hours.
