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Food safety tips for great summer feasts

Summer is here, and with it comes barbecues, picnics, and delicious meals shared outdoors. But with the rising temperatures, food safety becomes even more critical. The last thing you want is for your summer gathering to be spoiled by foodborne illness.

Here are some key food safety tips to keep your summer feasts safe and enjoyable:

Wash hands often - This is the golden rule! Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.

Pack smart - When travelling with perishable food, pack them in coolers or insulated containers with plenty of ice or frozen gel packs. Keep coolers out of direct sunlight and maintain a temperature below 4°C (40°F).

Beat the Danger Zone - Bacteria multiply rapidly between 4°C and 60°C. Keep cold foods below 40°F (4°C) with ice or refrigeration, and hot foods above 140°F (60°C) on the grill or with warming trays.

Two-hour rule - Foods left out for more than two hours (one hour if above 32°C are unsafe and should be thrown away.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your summer meals are as delicious as they are safe. So, fire up the grill, pack your picnic basket, and enjoy a worry-free summer season filled with safe and delightful outdoor feasts!

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Residue Management

Video: Residue Management

Residue Management conservation practice manages the amount, orientation, and distribution of crop and other plant residue on the soil surface year-round while limiting soil-disturbing activities used to grow and harvest crops in systems where the field surface is tilled prior to planting. This video explores how Ryan McKenzie implemented this conservation practice on his farm in Samson, Alabama.

Practice benefits:

• Increases organic matter

• Improves air quality

• Decreases energy costs

• Reduces erosion

• Improves soil health

The Conservation at Work video series was created to increase producer awareness of common conservation practices and was filmed at various locations throughout the country. Because conservation plans are specific to the unique resource needs on each farm and also soil type, weather conditions, etc., these videos were designed to serve as a general guide to the benefits of soil and water conservation and landowners should contact their local USDA office for individual consultation.