Packing the Perfect Picnic (Plus Fun Finger Food Ideas)

The July weather is perfect for sitting outside and relaxing, which is one of the reasons National Picnic Month is celebrated in July. Grab a basket, and some friends to celebrate, after all some of the best foods are eaten on the go.

When packing your basket full of treats there are some food safety tips that you should be aware of. Not all foods are made for traveling and time outside, especially in these hot summer months. Following simple food safety rules can help keep you and your family safe from foodborne illness.

Many foods are great to bring to a picnic, especially those made for sharing. When figuring out what you are going to bring with you outside, consider crowd-pleasing foods. There are so many wonderful foods to choose from!

4 Easy Ways to Practice Food Safety

While it’s always important to practice food hygiene, you should pay closer attention to handling food in a safe way when outside and in the heat. Handling food properly can help prevent food contamination. Here are some simple tips to try:

Properly Cook Food:Avoid eating raw or undercooked food. Each food group has a proper cooking temperature that should be reached to kill off harmful bacteria that can be living on the surface of the food. Poultry should always be cooked to 165 ºF. Ground meats should be cooked to 160 ºF and do not require a rest time. Whole cuts of meat should reach 145 ºF and require a three-minute rest time. All leftovers should be reheated to 165 ºF.

Separate Food Groups: Never mix raw meat, seafood, poultry, or eggs with other food items. These items are known to spread germs, so keeping them separate will prevent other items from getting contaminated. If you plan on barbecuing or cooking once you get there, keep those foods at the bottom of the cooler.

Clean-Up: Wash your hands and surfaces you are using during the cooking process often to prevent the onset of bacteria formation. When you are outside, bring hand sanitizer and wipes to clean as you go.

Avoid the Danger Zone: Pack perishable foods, such as deli items, and colder foods last to avoid temperatures falling into the danger zone which registers between 40-140 degrees F. Keep ice packs in your cooler and make sure open the cooler too many times.

Fun Finger Foods for Your Picnic

When you’re packing food for the picnic, be sure to pack foods that are easy to eat outside. There are so many great foods to choose from, including:

Charcuterie Board: A charcuterie board is great because it has something everyone can enjoy. Choose your favorite cheese, crackers, add some fruits, nuts, and meats!

Tiny Sandwiches: From peanut butter and jelly to cucumber and cheese, there are so many great sandwiches to choose from. Use whole grain bread to boost your fiber intake!

Vegetables and Dip: You can pack the traditional carrots and hummus or swap out for a different stick-shaped vegetable. Choose a dip that is not only delicious but can also be easily eaten outdoors.

Fruit Salad: A classic picnic food for a reason, because there is typically something everyone can enjoy. Choose a favorite fruit of everyone and cut it up into bite-size pieces.

Whatever you decide to pack, don’t forget to celebrate this July for National Picnic Month.

Your Turn to Action: What is your favorite food to bring on a picnic? Let me know in the comments below.