Released October 24, 2008
SEARCY, Ark. - Many parents hold Halloween parties for their children instead of sending them out trick-or-treating, said Katie Cobb, White County extension agent with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
"However, care needs to be taken - even at in-home parties - where food is concerned," she said.
But first, here's some good news:
Some nutritious treats to serve at these parties are plain or cheese-coated popcorn, not-too-sweet cookies, apples, grapes, bananas and other fresh fruit, unshelled peanuts and a "witch's brew" made with orange juice, lemonade, and apple cider.
Children will enjoy creating their own "scary pizza faces" by arranging sliced olives, green peppers, mushrooms, pepperoni and other ingredients on English muffins that have been brushed with tomato sauce. Add a little grated cheese for "hair," and pop in the oven or microwave.
Now for the bad news:
Even the best-dressed goblin at the party may be no match for the real master of disguise—food poisoning, says Cobb. Food poisoning bacteria are real pros: they don't disfigure food or change its color.
Even food poisoning symptoms—dizziness, nausea, upset stomach—are often misdiagnosed as the stomach flu.
The key to keeping food safe is to keep cold food cold and hot food hot. Make sure there is plenty of room in the refrigerator to store cold food before, during and after the party.
The refrigerator should be 40 degrees or cooler.
During the party, make sure cold foods that have been out for a while are switched with fresh, cold replacements every one and one-half hours or so. Food should not sit at room temperature for more than two hours.
Use chafing dishes, crock pots or warming trays to keep hot foods hot, Cobb said. Nest cold food in bowls of ice. Refrigerate leftovers and eat within two or three days, or freeze for longer storage.
By following Cobb's suggestions, adults can provide safe, nutritious food for their children's Halloween party.
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http://www.uaex.edu/news/october2008/1024halloween_foodsafety.htm
Contact: Lamar James, (501) 671-2187, ljames@uaex.edu
