Spring brings celebrations and gatherings, many of which include serving food. Keeping food safe and preventing food born illnesses is easy if a few precautions are taken.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is reminding consumers to be careful with food as warm weather makes its way to the state.
Tim Slawinski, MDARD’s Food and Dairy Division Director, said, “Whether you’re packing a picnic, for a sporting event or outdoor recreation, or planning a backyard barbecue, it’s crucial to follow simple food safety tips to protect your family and friends from foodborne illness.”
Those steps include frequent handwashing, preparing as much at home as possible as opposed to at the destination, and making sure the cooler has plenty of ice. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.
If foodborne illness is suspected, MDARD wants to know. Local health departments should be contacted first. They will report to MDARD, which will investigate to determine if it is an isolated incident, or if a common food source is a culprit.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
