Lunch Box Safety
Source: "Keeping Bag Lunches Safe", Food Safety and Inspection Service
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Q.
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Can food packaging and paper bags be reused?
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A.
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No, because they could contaminate other food and cause foodborne illness.
Discard all used food packaging and paper bags.
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Q.
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What are the recommended containers for packed lunches?
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A.
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Insulated, soft-sided lunch boxes or bags are best for keeping food cold, but metal
or plastic lunch boxes and paper bags can also be used. If using
paper bags, create layers by double bagging to help insulate the
food. An ice source should be packed with perishable food in any
type of lunch bag or box.
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Q.
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Is it safe to make lunches the night before?
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A.
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It's fine to prepare the food the night before and store the packed lunch in the
refrigerator. Freezing sandwiches helps them stay cold. However, for best quality,
don't freeze sandwiches containing mayonnaise, lettuce, or tomatoes. Add these later.
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Q.
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How long can perishable food last without an ice source?
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A.
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Food should not be left out at room temperature more than two
hours (one hour if the temperature is above 90°F).
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Q.
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What happens when perishable food is not kept cold?
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A.
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Harmful bacteria multiply rapidly in the "danger zone" -- the
temperatures between 40°F and 140°F. Perishable food transported without an ice source
won't stay safe long.
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Q.
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How do I keep cold foods cold?
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A.
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Prepare cooked food, such as turkey, ham, chicken, and vegetable or pasta
salads, ahead of time to allow for thorough chilling in the
refrigerator. Divide large amounts of food into shallow containers
for fast chilling and easier use. Keep cooked food refrigerated
until time to leave home.
To keep lunches cold away from home, include a
small frozen gel pack or frozen juice box. Of course, if there's a
refrigerator available, store perishable items there upon arrival.
Some food is safe without a cold source. Items that don't require refrigeration
include fruits, vegetables, hard cheese, canned meat and fish, chips, breads, crackers,
peanut butter, jelly, mustard, and pickles.
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Q.
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How do I keep hot foods hot?
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A.
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Use an insulated container to keep food like soup, chili, and stew hot.
Fill the container with boiling water, let stand for a few minutes,
empty, and then put in the piping hot food. Keep the insulated
container closed until lunchtime to keep the food hot -- 140°F.
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