7 tips to help you still have safe summer picnics during the pandemic

Stock image | Photo by Poseidon_v/iStock/Getty Images Plus, St. George News

FEATURE — Summertime is here, and after a long spring, many people are eager to get outside and socialize. Although there is no current evidence to support transmission of COVID-19 through food or food packaging, there are definite precautions to take when planning potlucks and picnics this summer.

Stock image | Photo courtesy of Utah State University Extension, St. George News

As we know, the chance of exposure to the disease increases when we gather, and the virus can spread from coughing, sneezing and even just talking. While large groups are still not recommended, here are nine best practices to keep in mind if you choose to gather with family and friends for a summer picnic:

1. Gather in small groups and avoid close contact.

Gather outside to help guests spread out and stay distanced, and place lawn chairs at least 6 feet apart. If you are unable to social distance, wear a face mask.

2. Provide hand sanitizer, and clean frequently touched surfaces often.

Guests can use the hand sanitizer when they arrive and before they eat or touch food. And make sure to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces. We know that a person can contract the virus by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touching his or her mouth, nose or eyes.

3. Limit hand-to-food contact, and keep the food and serving areas out of the reach of children.

Germs can spread easily if many hands touch the same things. If possible, offer individually packaged foods. For example, instead of providing a large bag of chips for everyone, purchase small, individual-sized bags. And have adults prepare plates for children.

4. Avoid sharing items with others.

If you are serving the food buffet style, have one person serve so it eliminates multiple people from touching serving utensils. Also, don’t share food with people outside your immediate family.

5. Cover your coughs and sneezes.

Use a tissue if possible, and dispose of it. Be sure to wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.

6. Be aware of how you feel.

If you are feeling any symptoms, avoid gathering with others and stay home. If you are considered high-risk, it is still recommended to stay home and limit visiting friends and family without an urgent need.

7. Continue to follow general food safety practices.

Remember to properly clean, separate, cook and chill your foods to avoid food-borne illnesses. Clean your hands and the preparation and cooking surfaces frequently. Wash cutting boards and all utensils in hot, soapy water or in the dishwasher after each use. Always wash fresh fruits and vegetables before preparing.

Separate raw meat from fresh foods while cutting, cleaning and storing. Do not place cooked meats on a dirty plate that once held raw meat. Cook food to appropriate internal temperatures to destroy harmful microorganisms. Chill foods and avoid leaving them out at room temperature for more than two hours. Use coolers and ice to keep cold foods cold and heating sources to keep hot foods hot.

Written By MELANIE JEWKES, Utah State University Extension associate professor, and JENNA STOKER, family and consumer sciences intern.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2020, all rights reserved.

Free News Delivery by Email

Would you like to have the day's news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!