Simple Food Safety Tips for Your Holiday Cookout

The Fourth of July is a time for family gatherings, community celebrations, and backyard barbecues. Whether you’re grilling burgers, steaks, hot dogs, or chicken, food safety should be just as important as the menu. By following food safety practices recommended by the United States Department of Agriculture, the nationally recognized ServSafe® food safety program, and used by many Extension programs, you can help prevent foodborne illness and ensure everyone enjoys a safe holiday.

The USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline recognizes four key principles of food safety: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill...