Holiday Food Gift Safety

The holiday season is the perfect time to share homemade food gifts, but it’s essential to ensure they’re safe to eat. Whether you’re gifting cookies, jams, breads, or savory treats, here are a few quick tips for keeping your food gifts safe:

• Cleanliness: Wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly when preparing food to avoid cross-contamination.
• Proper storage: Keep perishable items cool with insulated bags or coolers to maintain freshness. For shelf-stable gifts like cookies and jams, store them in properly sealed airtight containers.
• Timing is key: Deliver food gifts close to the time of consumption to ensure they’re fresh. If mailing, use expedited shipping to prevent spoilage.
• Be aware of allergies: Always check for any food allergies or dietary restrictions before gifting treats. For extra peace of mind, label your gifts with ingredient lists.

By following these simple guidelines, you can share safe, delicious food gifts that everyone will enjoy this holiday season.