Whether you are hosting a private event at home or preparing food in a commercial kitchen this New Year’s Eve, this comprehensive food safety guide will help make sure that 2023 ends on a high.
Nobody wants to start the new year with a food-related illness. Fortunately, with the appropriate food handling procedures in place, this is a scenario that can easily be avoided. Below are five essential tips for maintaining food safety on New Year’s Eve:
Safe food storage is one of the fundamental aspects of food safety and to start with, you must ensure that food is stored at the correct temperature. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), food is most susceptible to pathogen growth at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F (Temperature Danger Zone). For this reason, the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA) stipulates that commercial refrigerator temperatures must not exceed 40°F. Frozen food must be stored at 0°F or below.
In addition to getting storage temperatures correct, it’s important to use appropriate food wraps and containers when storing perishable foods as it can make a big difference when it comes to preserving food quality and safety. They should be airtight, clearly labeled and made from durable, food-safe materials. If reusable, containers must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between uses.
Cross-contamination is a common cause of foodborne illnesses and occurs when harmful pathogens are transferred from one food item to another. This is a particular concern when handling raw meat, poultry and seafood. To prevent cross-contamination:
The importance of personal hygiene in food safety cannot be overstated. Simple practices such as washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food and after touching raw meat can prevent the spread of bacteria. Additionally, it’s advisable to use disposable gloves when preparing food and to change them frequently, especially when switching between different food types.
Cooking food to the right temperature is essential to kill harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of meats, casseroles and other dishes.
During NYE celebrations, food is often left out for guests to enjoy over several hours. However, perishable foods should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. If the room is warm, reduce this time to one hour. Food can be kept at a safe temperature using the following methods:
When preparing, handling and serving food on New Year’s Eve, food businesses must follow established food safety protocols and ensure compliance with state legislation.
As well as following the five food handling techniques mentioned above, food establishments should implement an effective food safety plan based on HACCP principles to provide structure to their approach.
The Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) system provides a proactive framework for food safety. When incorporated into the food safety plan it can help staff identify specific hazards and manage them accordingly.
The HACCP system encourages the following practices:
New Year's Eve parties often feature a wide variety of dishes, making it a prime time for the potential spread of foodborne illnesses. Understanding and implementing food safety practices is vital to prevent these risks.
Food handler training is designed to educate those who handle, prepare and serve food on the best practices for maintaining food safety. Userve’s Food Handler Training Program features three units covering essential topics such as proper food storage, temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, allergen management and personal hygiene.
With properly trained staff onboard, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and allergic reactions at NYE events. Other benefits include increased consumer confidence, a reduction in food waste and compliance with food safety legislation.
Protecting the health and safety of customers is paramount, both from a moral and legal standpoint. Food handler training is an essential part of this, equipping food industry personnel with the necessary skills to avoid incidents of foodborne diseases or allergic reactions among consumers.
In many states and counties, individuals involved in food service, preparation, transportation, or the cleaning and sanitizing of food equipment and utensils are legally required to undergo some level of food handler or food safety training. Some states even mandate that food handling staff must provide evidence to show that they have completed a food safety course before commencing employment.
In certain states, such as Illinois, Texas, and California, it’s compulsory for food handlers to undergo specific training sanctioned by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). Userve’s ANAB-accredited training programs guarantee compliance with current state regulations.
Food safety inspectors conduct thorough examinations of food service establishments to ensure they meet the relevant food safety regulations. This includes checking that food handler training standards are being followed. Failing to comply with these standards could result in fines or, in severe cases, the closure of the business.
Additionally, depending on the severity of the offense, the financial impact of a food safety violation can be significant. By proactively participating in food safety training, businesses can significantly lower the risk of fines, lawsuits and legal costs.
The countdown to 2024 has already begun; secure the wellbeing of New Year’s Eve partygoers by reinforcing your commitment to food safety.
Food handler training goes beyond regulatory compliance; it’s an essential element of a sustainable business strategy. Investing in professional training programs not only ensures the safety and satisfaction of your customers, but it also sets your business up for success in 2024 and beyond.
The Userve Food Handler Course provides a fast, flexible way to obtain your Food Handler Card. Want to know more? Contact us today or follow the link below for more information regarding food handler training in your state.