Food safety and recipes for summer barbecues

As summer barbecues continue, experts emphasize the importance of food safety to prevent illnesses caused by pathogens like E. coli and salmonella. A key recommendation is the use of a digital meat thermometer to ensure meat reaches safe internal temperatures, rather than relying solely on visual cues like color or texture.

According to FoodSafety.gov, recommended internal temperatures include 165 degrees Fahrenheit for poultry, 160 degrees for ground meat, 145 degrees for steak and fish, and 140 degrees for hot dogs. Additionally, preventing cross-contamination during the grilling process is essential for safety.

For those looking to prepare seasonal meals, recipes such as burgers topped with crispy fried green tomatoes are popular for backyard gatherings. A suggested method involves seasoning 90/10 ground beef and frying thinly sliced green tomatoes in a coating of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.