With the arrival of spring, BBQ season is upon us, and Brits are eagerly anticipating firing up their grills for some outdoor dining.
But before you get ready to cook, Natasha Blythe, a food hygiene expert at High Speed Training, shares six essential tips to ensure your BBQ experience is stress-free and safe.
1. Pre-Cleaning is Essential
Whether your BBQ has been hibernating outside or stored away in the garage over the winter, it’s crucial to give it a thorough cleaning before use.
Natasha advised: “Remove any grills, griddles, or hot plates for separate washing. Scrub them with a wire scourer or scrunched up tin foil to remove stubborn food residue, then wash with hot, soapy water.
“Wipe down any elements that can’t be removed with an antibacterial cleaner, and ensure all charcoal residue is cleaned.”
4. Consider Your Cooking Order
To avoid cross-contamination, plan your cooking order carefully.
Natasha suggested: “Cook allergy-sensitive foods separately and first to minimize the risk of contamination.
“Cook meats with the lowest contamination risk first and keep different meats segregated on the grill whenever possible.”
5. Avoid Turning Meat to Charcoal
Determining when meat is cooked on a BBQ can be tricky.
“Cut into the meat to check doneness, or use a food thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 70°C. While some beef products can remain slightly pink, ensure all poultry and pork are thoroughly cooked,” the expert said.
6. Cover and Reheat Leftovers
Lastly, to prevent food waste, store leftovers in sealed containers once cooled, and only refrigerate when fully cooled to prevent temperature fluctuations.
When reheating, ensure meat reaches at least 70°C throughout.
