Food Safety Pages. Check them out!

Buffet and Party Safety
Also includes what to do if your guests have been delayed at least an hour

Golden Rules of Food Safety
IF IN DOUBT, THROW IT OUT! If you have any question in your mind about the freshness or safety of eating a food product, throw it out. It is better to be safe than sorry!

Picnic Safety Tips
There is nothing more American than the picnic. Picnics can take on many forms, such as the community picnic, friends and neighbors, tailgate parties, or ball games. There is also one sure thing at every picnic-lots of good food.

The important point is to have safe and healthy food, not food that can cause food borne illness. Always prepare and store food properly.

Summer Safety Tips
Summer is the time for barbecues and picnics. The biggest party crasher at summer picnic and buffets is food borne bacteria. You can't see them and you can't taste them, but you sure can feel them if illness occurs hours or days later.

Simple Rules for Planning a Dinner Party

• Plan Ahead.
   

• Create your menu. Make sure the menu is compatible with each course. Vary dishes: change the texture, temperature, spiciness and/or color of what you serve to interest the eye and the palate. Feature flavors that contrast but don’t clash. Balance a spicy dish with a mild dish, a sweet dish with a savory dish. Try to use local foods that are in season.
   

• Choose recipes you have already tried and tested. This is not a good time to try something new if you are cooking yourself. This will help to avoid any disasters and turn your dinner party into a "hit."
   

• Try to plan as many make-ahead dishes as your can. Keep the number of recipes that involve last-minute preparation to a minimum unless you have lots of help getting everything on the table. Keep the meal manageable and within your comfort level.
   

• Make a grocery list of ingredients your need to purchase.
   

• Set the table in advance of your party, even a day ahead of time. Presentation is as important for the table as it is for the food.
   

• Most of all relax and enjoy the process!

Appetizer Hints
How many appetizers to make for your party?