Preparation And Serving Safety Necessary With Super Bowl Spreads
Most people think that a big flat-screen television is the key ingredient for a great Super Bowl party. But even more important than watching football in high definition is food that has been safely prepared and properly served.
By Andrea Nisley, UNL Extension Educator - Family Consumer Science - Dawson County
Most people think that a big flat-screen television is the key ingredient for a great Super Bowl party. But even more important than watching football in high definition is food that has been safely prepared and properly served.
The main thing to remember while serving party food is that hot food needs to stay at a temperature at or above 140 degrees, and cold food should always be at or below 40 degrees. Foods like meats, cheeses, cut fruit and vegetables and dips should not sit at room temperature for more than two hours.
When serving food use a variety of methods to ensure food maintains the necessary temperatures. Serve hot foods in a crock pot or use a warming plate. Cold foods can be served on ice by placing the serving bowl inside a bowl with ice.
Take some time to consider when people will be most likely to eat the food. If it’s not until halftime then make sure the food stays hot or cold until then. Also, serve food in smaller amounts. Don’t overwhelm guests with a large spread. When things run out, replace them with the extras prepared and stored in the refrigerator or oven. This will ensure that the food hasn’t been left out, and it prevents wasting large amounts of food.
Consider cross contamination when preparing the food. Always use a clean surface when cutting. If the cutting board has been used earlier, take the time to clean it thoroughly.
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