Memorial Day is a special day of remembrance for those who have served our country. This somber yet powerful day first started back in the late nineteenth century to honor fallen civil war soldiers, and now it falls on the last Monday of May as a national holiday. Every year, millions of Americans take the time to reflect on the brave individuals who have selflessly given their lives in service of the United States.
In some parts of the United States, it is also called Decoration Day, which can be observed on any weekend in May, so that relatives can attend the gravesites at more than one cemetery. This tradition began after the Civil War. Along with tending the graves of the soldiers and family members, it also became a time for loved ones to catch up and have a picnic lunch while tidying up the sites of eternal rest. The wearing of a poppy flower is a common tradition across the country to recognize those who have served. I have several that I have kept over the years.
However, Memorial Day is also the gateway to kicking off the summer season. Are you having a get-together with friends and family to celebrate? It is easy to get out of the practice about the special food safety hazards that can occur while we are cooking on the grill, visiting with guests, or traveling and taking a picnic lunch with us. While one should always be mindful of food safety rules, it is easy to get distracted and overlook some of the basics. Here is a quick reminder.
- Clean preparation surfaces are necessary to avoid cross-contamination, and this includes washing your hands before, during, and after the preparation of foods. Never use utensils on cooked food that have touched raw food.
- Keep cold foods refrigerated or on ice; hot foods should be served hot. Keep cold foods such as potato salad or any dishes containing eggs or mayonnaise in the refrigerator until it is time to serve them. While serving, set the bowls in tubs of ice to ensure that they stay cold, and never leave them out for more than two hours.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure that your meats or cooked items have reached recommended USDA lethality temperatures. A list of temperatures can be found here: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/safe-temperature-chart . When in doubt make sure that the internal temperature is a minimum of 165 °F. or download my free, printable chart.
- Make sure that you refrigerate leftovers promptly in small containers, so that they cool quickly.
For more information be sure to check out some of my previous blogs for barbeque, tailgating, and party tips.
Are you struggling with what to prepare for your guests? Perhaps you need a quick dish to bring to a potluck? Check out these sites for great recipes.
45 Best Memorial Day Recipes & Ideas – Food Network
https://www.foodnetwork.com/holidays-and-parties/packages/memorial-day/memorial-day-recipes
75 Best Memorial Day Recipes – Easy Memorial Day Menu Ideas https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/g35981119/memorial-day-recipes/
Memorial Day Recipes https://www.allrecipes.com/recipes/1502/holidays-and-events/memorial-day/
16 Easy Ideas for Memorial Day Side Dishes – Better Homes & Gardens https://www.bhg.com/holidays/july-4th/memorial-day-side-dish-ideas/
If these don’t fit the bill, the classics are always a hit. Hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, corn on the cob, chips, potato salad, berries, strawberry shortcake, and whatever your favorite dish is to prepare.
As always, wash your hands, stay safe, and feel free to share these tips with your friends and relatives. If you have questions or food safety concerns, please reach out using our contact page. Have a safe holiday weekend!