Food Safety
Barbecuing can present a special challenge with respect to food safety. Many barbecue-related activities are outdoors, occur during the hot summer, and involve inadequate hand-washing facilities. Considering these potential problems, ensuring that barbecued meat is safe to eat and serve is important.
Explore food safety principles and information related to barbecuing meat.
Food safety principles
These are some common food safety principles:
- Use a thermometer to ensure that cuts of meat reach the appropriate internal temperatures.
- Separate raw and cooked products so that cross contamination does not occur.
- Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Immediately refrigerate leftovers.
More food safety information
More information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture:
