As many working American families are busier than ever, it is no wonder that many families are turning to food gift catalogs or Internet sites whether for perfect holiday treats or to mark a special occasion. While mail order operators have a good food safety record, the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA/FSIS) offers food safety tips to help buyers and consumers determine if their perishable foods have been properly handled.
Be familiar with the temperature danger zone, which is between 40 and 140ºF; in this temperature range, dangerous bacteria can grow fast and can cause foods to be unsafe to eat. Invest in a food thermometer so that if you receive a perishable food you can check the temperature upon arrival.
When you order or receive a perishable food package make sure that the company sends perishable items such as meat or poultry cold or frozen and packed with cooling materials. The package should be well insulated. Make sure that the perishable food is shipped fast (ideally overnight) and that it has proper labeling. “If you receive a package labeled as “Keep Refrigerated” you should open it right away, and check the temperature of the product. Frozen foods should arrive frozen or partially frozen with ice crystals still visible.
If a perishable product arrives in your home warm, notify the company. Do not consume the food or even taste suspect food. Taking these precautions can help you and your family enjoy the gift of food.
Podcast: Food safety Tips for mail order perishable food
Written by: Amy Simonne
Reviewed by: Linda Bobroff
Listening, learning and living together, it’s the science of life. “Family Album” is a co-production of University of Florida IFAS Extension, the Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences and of WUFT-FM. If you’d like to learn more, please visit our website at familyalbumradio.org.
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Labels: food safety, gifts, holidays, shopping
