Cookout Food Handling the Whole Family Can Trust

Nothing beats a backyard cookout, but warm weather and food left out can spoil a good afternoon. These simple habits keep everybody happy.

Keep cold food cold

Use coolers with plenty of ice for salads, dips and raw meat.

Cook to the right temperature

A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out. Ribs, chicken and burgers each have a safe internal temperature.

Separate raw and cooked

Use a clean platter for cooked meat, never the one that held it raw.

The two-hour rule

Don't leave food out more than two hours, or one hour when it's over 90 degrees.

Wash up

Set out soap, water and paper towels near the grill and table.