For many of us, those long spring and summer days, when there’s not a cloud in the sky and just the faintest trace of a warm breeze on the air can only mean one thing- barbecue weather! There’s no question that as soon as the weather warms, we head outdoors to soak up the sunshine with our barbecue fork and tongs in hand. When you fire up the grill this barbecue season, take the following food safety precautions and grilling tips to ensure a perfectly grilled meal every time.

Food Safety Tips:
• Ensure all countertops, utensils and dishes are clean before you start.
• Keep raw and cooked food separate by using separate cutting boards and utensils for meat and vegetables.
• Always marinate meat, poultry and fish in the refrigerator and not on the counter.
• Serve cooked meat, poultry or fish on a clean plate with clean utensils.
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours after cooking.
• Clean the barbecue grill between each use.

Grilling Tips:
• Lightly oil the grill to prevent sticking and charring.
• Preheat the grill properly, waiting until it is hot before you begin cooking. This also helps to sear meat and poultry on the outside and seal the juices inside to keep it moist.
• Use tongs or a spatula to retain flavourful juices. Piercing meat and poultry with a fork will dry it out.
• Baste at the proper time. Brush with barbecue and sweet sauces only during last few minutes of grilling to preserve flavour and prevent charring.
• Check doneness with an instant meat thermometer to ensure all meat, poultry and fish is cooked to perfection and a safe internal temperature.
• Cook similar sized portions together to ensure they cook evenly.