Many Iowans will be gathering today (Sunday) with family and friends to celebrate Christmas. Those gatherings typically involve large meals, which can spoil the holiday fun quickly if not taken care of properly. Health officials are reminding Iowans to take the necessary steps to ensure food is correctly prepared and then stored properly once the meal is over. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, foods must reach a minimum internal temperature before eating to prevent the spread of disease-causing bacteria. Temperatures vary based on food type but typically exceed 145 degrees Fahrenheit on the low end. After eating, perishable foods should be refrigerated within two hours of being cooked. Learn more about proper food storage at www.cdc.gov/foodsafety.
