Lisa Conway – FLORIDA TODAY
Q: Do you have any tips for safe grilling and picnic foods?
A: It’s summertime, when many older Floridians enjoy grilling and picnicking outdoors. At a nearby park or on the beach, Florida’s intense summer heat must be taken into account. Here’s some handy advice for outdoor cooking.
- Stay Cool and Hydrated
Florida heat can be blistering, so plan your picnic or grilling for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Set up under a shady tree or canopy and wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Don’t forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses!
Hydration is key. Keep cold water at the ready and avoid excessive (and dehydrating) alcohol or caffeinated drinks. Add slices of lemon or lime to your water for extra refreshment
- Food Safety First
It’s a fact. Warm temperatures can quickly spoil picnic food. Use coolers with plenty of ice to keep your food COLD. Use a food thermometer when grilling—burgers should be cooked to 160°F and chicken to 165°F. Food that needs to be kept hot or cold shouldn’t be left outside of the coolers for more than two hours, or one hour when the temperature is 90 degrees or above. Foods that aren’t properly cooled are at risk of developing bacteria, which can cause food poisoning.
When planning your picnic foods, “keep it simple, consider food safety, transportation and ease of eating,” suggests southern chef and cookbook author Virginia Willis. “Foods that wilt, like lettuce or mayonnaise salads, are better enjoyed at home. Instead think hardy foods that travel well and can be enjoyed on your lap or picnic table.” Don’t forget the hand sanitizer or disposable wipes for your picnic basket to help keep things sanitary.
- Make Grilling Easier and Safer
Seniors may find small, portable gas or electric grills easier to manage than large charcoal setups. Got your long-handled utensils and heat-resistant gloves? Prep and season skewers, burgers and veggies ahead of time. Foil packet meals are even easier! Simply wrap fish, vegetables, or chicken with seasonings in foil and place them on the grill.
- Comfortable Seating
Not at a picnic pavilion? Bring comfy folding chairs with good back support, and find a nice level area that’s easy to access. A small folding table will help keep items off the ground and organized.
- Protect Your Skin and Eyes
Even under shade, UV rays can reach you. Apply sunscreen (and lip balm) with SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 2 hours. Polarized sunglasses help reduce glare and protect your eyes.
Stay safe –and enjoy!
Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and Certified Care Manager for One Senior Place Care Management, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
