The kids are ready, snacks are packed, and you鈥檙e headed out for some summer fun. Summer is a great time for outdoor activities, but the higher temperatures can cause food to go bad more quickly than you might think. A few easy habits can keep your family safe and feeling good all summer long. What Happens When It Gets Hot In the summer, warm air does something you can't see. It helps bacteria grow fast in food that's been left out. Food starts to enter what food safety experts call the "danger z...
Texas is known for its hot summer days. And Texans know how to beat the heat during normal summer days. The rules are different, however, for extreme heat. 鈥淓xtreme heat鈥� means two or more days that are much hotter than average. According to the American Red Cross, extreme heat kills more people than any other weather event. Air conditioning and fans can help you to stay cool鈥攗nless the power goes out. Plan now with the tips below so you and your family can stay safe during an extreme heat emergency. Le...
Late summer is the perfect time to enjoy meals outdoors. However, on hot days, it鈥檚 more important than ever to follow food safety rules. Otherwise, bacteria inside and on the surface of food items can grow to dangerous levels. This can cause food poisoning and other serious illnesses in adults and children. Be sure to protect food鈥攁nd everything that touches it鈥攚hen you are preparing or serving meals or wrapping up leftovers. Just remember the four rules of food safety: Clean Separate Cook Chill Clean ...
In March, we celebrate both National Nutrition Month 庐 and St. Patrick鈥檚 Day. That makes it the perfect month to focus on green foods. Call them veggies. Call them 鈥渟alad fixins.鈥� Whatever you call them, leafy greens and vegetables help people of all ages to grow and stay strong and healthy. What are the health benefits of green foods? Vegetables and leafy greens taste great. They are low-cost, especially in the spring and summer. Best of all, these foods have several health benefits: Low in calories, w...
Spring and summer bring picnics and eating outdoors. It also means you can find great deals on your favorite fruits and vegetables. However, hot days and nights can cause food to spoil more quickly. That can lead to throwing out food before you get to enjoy it. Eating spoiled food can also lead to food poisoning. How can you protect your food鈥攁nd your family鈥攄uring the warmer months? Take a look at the tips below for some easy ways to make food last longer. Check your refrigerator settings Your refriger...