Practical Tips for Maintaining Food Safety During Outdoor Summer Gatherings

In the summer months, barbecues and picnics are a popular way to enjoy the outdoors. However, for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, it's essential to take extra precautions to ensure food safety and hygiene. The German Cancer Society (Deutsche Krebsgesellschaft) and related cancer care organisations offer guidance for safe participation in these social events.

While no specific organisation provides barbecue safety tips tailored to cancer patients, practical advice focuses on minimising infection risks. This includes avoiding high-risk foods like nitrite-cured meats and ensuring proper hand hygiene and food preparation to reduce bacterial exposure.

Staying hydrated is crucial during these events, especially in hot weather. Water is the best choice, making it an essential item to bring along. Sodas and other caffeinated drinks, while tempting, may contribute to dehydration and are not effective at quenching thirst.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are great additions to any barbecue or picnic, but they can be risky if not properly washed. Thoroughly cleaning them before consuming is vital to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Cooked foods are safer than raw or undercooked foods at barbecues and picnics. It's important to avoid raw or undercooked eggs, meat, and fish. Anything with mayonnaise, cold hot dogs, or deli meats can also be dangerous.

To preserve food safety and temperature, keep the cooler closed until ready to eat. The cooler should be packed well with ice or ice packs. If refrigeration is not available at the picnic location, consider eating beforehand at home.

If not hungry right away, fix a plate for yourself, wrap it well, and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready. Illness-causing bacteria can start growing in perishable foods within two hours, and within an hour if it's 90 degrees or more.

Bringing a cooler with personal food can be beneficial for individuals having trouble eating or losing weight. Arriving when the food is first served at a barbecue or picnic can help avoid foodborne illness. It's also acceptable not to share food from the personal cooler.

Melissa Zahn, a dietitian at Wilmot Oncology, shares tips for making the most of a cookout while managing cancer treatment. She emphasises the importance of being cautious about food safety, especially if your immune system is weakened by cancer treatment.

In conclusion, with a little extra care and attention, cancer patients can enjoy the summer social events with peace of mind. By following these simple tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable barbecue or picnic experience.