This year’s Independence Day celebration coincides with record-breaking heat waves that might be fatal in many parts of the US and the world. Extreme heat risk and record-breaking temperatures are possible in some areas of the South and Southwest. With highs in several places above 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius), California is probably going to be particularly severely affected.
Simultaneously, the outbreak of avian influenza has moved to cows, prompting concerns about the safety of key goods like hamburgers, milk, and eggs.
This week, during an outdoor concert, I sweated much and drank a lot of water. It got me thinking about how to safely celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. But what about all the burgers, potato salad, and grilled meat that are sitting outside in the heat? How can we enjoy this holiday weekend’s picnics and barbecues without getting too hot?
Given the anticipated high temperatures, are there any other food safety precautions we should take? Are there any other health considerations for this holiday, such as staying hydrated and cool?
Dr. Leana Wen, a CNN wellness expert, to get her assistance with these questions. Wen works as a clinical associate professor at George Washington University and practices emergency medicine. She was the health commissioner for Baltimore before.
Could you briefly restate the significance of food safety?
Dr. Leana Wen: Approximately 9 million cases of foodborne disease occur each year, according to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. People who consume food or drink that has been contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites are the main cause of these disorders.
The majority of episodes are mild, but even little diseases can be uncomfortable because they typically cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain. Unfortunately, some people can pass away and others can get very unwell and need to be hospitalised. The most vulnerable to serious sickness include the elderly, little children under five, expectant mothers, and people with compromised immune systems.
What dietary measures are advised for outdoor events like barbecues?
Wen: A lot of pathogenic germs are present in undercooked meat. Using an internal thermometer is the most accurate approach to ensure that meat is done through.
I suggest checking the internal temperature that various varieties of meat should be cooked at on this US government food safety page. For example, ground beef should be cooked to at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit, while chicken should be cooked inside to at least 165 degrees.
To stop bacteria from growing, keep cooked meat at 140 degrees Fahrenheit or higher until it’s time to serve. Raw meat should be chilled before cooking, not left out at room temperature. It ought to be taken off right before setting it on a grill.
Are there any other particular aspects to take into account, considering how hot the weather can be this week?
Wen: In agreement. The US Department of Agriculture advises that perishable food can be left out in the open for up to two hours during typical weather conditions. That is, however, shortened to one hour if the temperature rises beyond 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
This holds true for perishable salads like cole slaw and potato salad as well as cooked meat dishes like hamburgers. These foods should be consumed immediately in hot weather; if not, they should be refrigerated within an hour.
What about those who are grilling out at parks or other locations where refrigerators aren’t present?
Wen: A cooler with lots of ice and good insulation should be there. Until it’s time to grill, raw or undercooked meat should be stored at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or less.
Additionally, I advise storing raw meat in tightly sealed bags to prevent cross-contamination with other raw foods like fruit and vegetables.
Observing the tools and plates you use for raw meat vs other meals is another barbecue safety measure. Any plates, containers, and utensils that come into touch with raw meat should be labelled. Keep them apart from platters that include fruit, chips, bread, salad dressings, and other foods.
Moreover, remember to wash your hands after handling raw meat?
Wen: Definitely, yes. Making a salad shortly after handling raw hamburger meat is not what you want to do. Every time you handle raw meat, make sure you thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.
Let’s take a brief time to discuss bird flu. Has the avian flu pandemic changed our perspective on what foods, such as chicken wings and hamburgers, are appropriate to eat? Is it still okay to consume milk and eggs?
Wen: As long as meat and eggs are cooked to the required temperatures, it is safe to keep consuming these goods, according to federal health officials.
It is also safe to continue consuming milk, although it must be emphasised that pasteurisation is required. It is unsafe to consume raw milk. Raw milk has the potential to spread the bird flu in addition to harbouring microorganisms. Before the avian flu outbreak, it wasn’t advised for people to drink raw milk or consume products made from raw milk, and it’s definitely not advised now.
Food safety has been discussed extensively. What additional health concerns should you be aware of this July Fourth?
Wen: Recognise the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke if you plan to be outside in hot weather. Those who are most susceptible to heat-related illnesses include youngsters, the elderly, and those with long-term medical issues. Take extra care of your pets. They can also become hot. Never leave kids or dogs alone in a car; the high temperatures inside can be dangerous. The car will quickly overheat.
When it’s practicable, everyone should make an effort to remain in the shade. Drink plenty of water. The greatest way to stay hydrated is to drink water. However, during heat waves, excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption might be hazardous. Wear sun-protective clothes, and remember to apply and reapply sunscreen frequently.