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Why worry about food safety during summer months?

The risk of food poisoning increases during the summer because harmful bacteria grow quickly in warm, moist conditions.

Ensuring the safety of food can be challenging this time of year because temperatures are warmer and we often cook outdoors during picnics, barbecues, and camping trips.

What is the “Temperature Danger Zone” referring to?

Germs on food reach unsafe levels fast in the “temperature danger zone,” which is between 4-60°C. Harmful bacteria can grow in as little as two hours in this temperature range. Refrigerated foods need to be kept at or below 4°C.

How can people plan ahead to prevent food poisoning during summer?

• Don’t keep food at room temperature for more than one hour on hot summer days.
• Store food quickly after buying it and don’t leave it outside or in a hot vehicle.
• Use a cooler filled with ice packs to store your food on the go.
• Keep the cooler out of direct sunlight and avoid opening it too often. Opening the cooler lets cold air out and warm air in. Using separate coolers for food and drinks will keep the food colder for longer because the cooler won’t be opened as often.
• Marinate meat in a fridge or in a cooler filled with ice–not on the counter. If you are using marinade to baste cooked meat or as a dipping sauce, make sure it hasn’t come into contact with uncooked meat.

What are safe options for thawing frozen foods?

• Use a microwave (then fully cook it right away),
• Let it sit in a fridge or cooler, or
• Place it in cold water and change the water every 30 minutes.

 

Do not defrost at room temperature; bacteria can grow on the surface of the item while the inside is still thawing. Any foods left out for over 4 hours total should be thrown out.

Is there any dietary advice surrounding BBQ’ing?

I’m a fan of a good summer BBQ, there’s always good food and it brings friends/family together. It is important to remember that when animal fat drips onto flames it can cause flare-ups and harmful chemicals can form on the food which may increase our risk of cancer. We can reduce our risk by:

• Eating less barbecued meat,
• Removing charred or burned parts of meat,
• Marinating meat before it is barbecued, or
• Serving the meat with veggies.

 

https://mfht.org/2020/07/23/5-tips-for-better-nutrition-while-camping/

https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/seasonal-food-safety/summer-food-safety-tips.html

Why do fluids matter?

Fluid is essential! It has many important roles. Fluids help to:

• move nutrients and waste through your body
• keep your blood pressure normal
• protect and cushion your joints and organs
• control your body temperature and
• lower your risk of dehydration and heat stroke

 

What is dehydration?

• Dehydration is when you lose more fluid than you take in. You may be dehydrated even if you don’t have any of the signs so it is important to drink fluids often even before you feel thirsty.

Below are some of the signs of dehydration:

• Thirst
• Dry lips and dry mouth
• Flushed skin
• Headache
• Dizziness and fainting
• Dark yellow, strong smelling urine
• Low blood pressure and increased heart rate

 

How much water should I consume everyday?

The amount of fluids you need depends on your age, gender and level of physical activity. Remember that you will need even more fluids to stay hydrated in hot weather and when you are physically active. A good hydration goal is 6-8 cups daily for teens and young adults.

 

Drinking liquids throughout the day is especially important for older adults. Dehydration can lead to dizziness, fainting and low blood pressure which may put older adults at risk for falls. Dehydration may also make constipation worse.

 

Are there ways to tell if I’m drinking enough fluids? Flushed skin, low BP and increased heart rate

• Check your thirst – If you are thirsty or have a dry mouth, it is likely that you are not drinking enough. Aim to drink fluids often throughout the day. Remember that once you are thirsty, you are already somewhat dehydrated.
• Check your urine – If your urine is a dark yellow colour and has a strong smell, you may not be getting enough fluids. Urine that is light yellow or clear in colour usually means that you are drinking enough fluids. The amount of urine you make can also be a sign of your hydration status. If you do not make much urine throughout the day and it is dark in colour, you likely need more fluids.
• Check your mood – If you feel light headed and tired, are not able to focus or have many headaches, these could be signs that you are dehydrated.

 

What are some tips to meet my fluid needs?

• Be aware of your thirst and drink fluids often throughout the day.
• Choose water to drink when you are thirsty. Avoid soft drinks.
• Keep water nearby when you are at work, at school, at play or out and about.
• Enjoy other fluids such as skim, 1% and 2% milk, fortified soy beverages, 100% vegetable or fruit juices and soups to help you meet your fluid needs.
• Choose decaffeinated drinks more often to keep you well hydrated. Drinks with caffeine should be limited to 3 cups per day.
• Take sips of water while eating meals and snacks.
• Keep a jug full of ice water, with lemon, lime, orange or cucumber slices in your fridge at home or at work.
• Remember to drink more in hot weather and when you are very active.