Did you know that Super Bowl Sunday is known as the second biggest single day of food consumption (right behind Thanksgiving Day)? Football, friends, and food are some of the main descriptors of Super Bowl; and food on this day plays a prominent role. Therefore, it is extremely important to keep two things in mind: 1) food safety and 2) nutrition.
- Because Super Bowl parties can last for several hours, it’s imperative to keep track of the food you have out for your guests.
- Certain foods (containing mayo, sour cream, meats, etc.) should not be out at room temperature for longer than two hours because you don’t want to enter the “Danger Zone.”
- The “Danger Zone” is when the temperature of food falls between 40°F and 140°F; this zone is when food is most likely to become home for harmful bacteria that will grow and multiply.
- Learn the USDA’s 4 keys to food safety:
1. Cook- Minimum temperature for poultry is 165°F; ground beef 160°F; steak internal temperature 145°F. Use a food thermometer to ensure meats are safely cooked.
2. Separate- Don’t cross contaminate; keep raw meat and poultry apart from cooked foods.
3. Clean- Wash hands and surfaces often.
4. Chill- Refrigerate or freeze promptly.
Food and Nutrition
For most, Super Bowl Sunday consist of wings, hot dogs, hamburgers, pizza, chips, dip, beer, and other greasy favorites. This year, why not try to make some healthier choices?!
- Do a fruit and veggie tray with a low-fat dip or hummus; or nuts, cheese and cracker tray
- Try grilled chicken breast, or chicken kabobs (protein and veggies!)
- Instead of having food out and eating because its in front of you, listen to your internal cues, make one plate to eat and then snack on fruits and veggies.
- Don’t drink your calories; focus on water instead of beer, cola, etc.
- Grill or bake foods instead of frying.
- Remember portion control; don’t just eat of the bowl!