Halloween is Friday and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has compiled some food safety tips to help trick-or-treaters enjoy a safe, fun night.
Give kids a meal or a snack before they head out for trick-or treating to help them avoid the urge to snack on items while they are out, especially those that are not commercially wrapped. Look over their bags when they return home. Remove anything that is not commercially wrapped, discard candy with packaging that is discolored or damaged, or has tears pinholes or other openings. Keep choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys away from very small children.
If serving juice or cider to guests, make sure it is pasteurized. Keep all perishable foods you plan to serve to party guest chilled until serving time. Once they are served, make sure they aren’t out at room temperature for more than two-hours.
(Photo from the FDA.)
