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WOW! Summer has not gotten here yet, and it is hot already.  Time to have BBQs, swim parties, beach parties, graduation parties, and all sorts of parties.  Because of the outside parties that will take place this summer, we need to take into consideration foodborne illnesses that will be lurking around and trying to get people sick, especially children and elderly.  Remember that bacteria grow faster in foods that are at a warmer than usual temperature when outside.

 

Listeria monocytogenes is a very dangerous bacteria that grows year-round, especially during the summer months.  This bacterium grows at refrigerator temperature and is very deadly for pregnant mothers, unborn babies and newborns. In fact, they are 10 times more likely to become infected with the bacteria.

 

Listeria is found in foods such as:

Cheeses that are soft and ripened (examples: Mexican-style, Brie, Feta, and Ricotta)

Vegetables that are raw

Pre-bagged salads with ham, chicken, tuna and seafood

Meats from the deli

Hot dogs

 

Hot dogs are a favorite at every BBQ party. However, that is why it is extremely important to make sure that:

• Hot dogs are never eaten straight from the package but heated to 165 degrees F.
• Hands are washed before and after handling the pack of hot dogs.
• Drain hot dog juices in sink so that it does not get on other foods or eating utensils.
• Keep grilled hot dog temperature at 140 degrees F or above until eaten.
• Leftovers should be refrigerated or placed on ice at least two hours after removed from grill or one hour if temperature is 90 degrees F. When reheating hot dogs, always heat to 165 degrees F or above.
• Leftover should be eaten within four days. After four days, throw away.

 

Following these instructions will keep these dangerous and deadly bacteria from crashing your party and making people sick.