KDHE Home - News 1999 - News Release
Kansas
Department of Health & Environment
Bill Graves, Governor
Clyde D. Graeber, Secretary
For Immediate Release
Contact: Don Brown, 785-296-1529
Barbeque Safety Tips Offered
With the Fourth of July weekend approaching and the summer barbeque season upon us, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is urging Kansans to exercise caution in order to prevent injuries and foodborne illness.
"Foodborne illness can be prevented with a little common sense and caution," said KDHE Secretary Clyde D. Graeber. "When cooking, clean your hands and use clean utensils. Keep raw meat separate from other foods. Cook meat and poultry thoroughly, using a thermometer to ensure that they have reached a temperature high enough to kill bacteria. And, of course, chill leftovers promptly."
The following tools and tips can help prevent illness and injury from spoiling your summer cook-out plans:
Food thermometer -- Don't trust the eye to make sure food is properly cooked. Use a food thermometer to be sure. It is the ONLY way to guarantee safely cooked meat and poultry. Hamburgers should cook to at least 160 degrees F, whole poultry to 180 degrees F, and chicken breasts and pieces to 165 degrees F.
Insulated Gloves or Mitts -- They help prevent hands from getting burned while measuring the temperature of foods on the hot grill.
Insulated cooler -- Bring along a cooler, preferably insulated, and lots of ice or gel packs to keep perishable foods cold and safe. When possible, keep the cooler shaded from the hot sun.
Soapy wash cloths or moist towelettes -- Wash hands, surfaces, and cooking utensils help ensure a safe meal.
For more information, contact The KDHE Bureau of Consumer Health, 785-296-5600 or the United States Department of Agriculture Meat and Poultry Hotline at 1-800-535-4555. Trained food safety specialists are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Central Time. The Hotline also has timely recorded information tips concerning safe preparation and handling of meat, poultry, and egg products available 24 hours a day.