COUNTY LIFE
Fresh produce requires some preparation
The summer season is a busy time for outdoor farmers markets, which means plenty of opportunities for consumers to purchase fresh produce.
But it is crucial to follow safe handling tips, Rebecca Dittmar, AgriLife Extension program specialist in Nutrition and Food Science, said.
“Whether produce comes from a grocery store or farmers market, it’s important to be consistent in practicing safe food handling at home,” Dittmar said.
Handling practices can be extremely simple and can significantly reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses from fresh produce, she said.
Consumers should always wash their produce before eating, regardless of where it was purchased.
“You should thoroughly rinse fresh produce with fresh water just before you eat or prepare it to be eaten,” she said. “Never use soap or bleach to clean fresh fruits or vegetables, and be sure to refrigerate cut, peeled or cooked fresh fruits and vegetables within two hours of preparing them.”
Produce should always be checked for bruising and other damages when purchasing. Pre-cut fruits and vegetables should be refrigerated or on ice. Produce should also be kept separate from raw meat, seafood, poultry, eggs and dairy while shopping and in the refrigerator, Dittmar noted.
Hands and surface areas should be cleaned and disinfected before and after preparing produce, as well.
“Before and after you handle your produce, wash your hands with hot, soapy water for at least 20 seconds,” she said. “Make sure all surfaces and utensils, such as cutting boards and knives, are washed with hot soapy water and sanitized before and after preparing your produce.”
Running water can be used to rinse off produce. Pre-packaged ready-to-eat or triple-washed fruits and vegetables should be good to go
Inside today find a special section Remembering 9/11 on the 25th anniversary of this pivotal day in America’s history.
This section provides an hour by hour account of that day to inform those who may not familiar with the details. We pay tribute to all those who faced the attacks and helped save those in danger from all walks of life. May this tribute remind you of all America lost that day and how the country moved forward.
Area young people from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade are invited to take part in the Art of the Song Young Visual and Performing Arts Exhibition on Oct. 10 during the annual music festival in Nocona.
Entry is free and artists may enter up to three pieces of artwork. One entry must be music-related, while the other two can be any art medium or genre. Drop-off artwork from noon to 6 p.m. on Oct. 7 at 103 Clay Street.
Art will be displayed starting at 10 a.m. on Oct. 10. Those with questions may call R. Marie Molsbee, 940-887-0165 or horse.power.ranch.nocona@gmail.com.
The performing arts portion will be at Bitters & Sweets, 206 Clay Street. If you have a child who loves to sing, dance or play an instrument or perform? Let them share their talents in a performance at the Art of the Song.
Those interested in the performing arts program may contact Carla at 940-765-5619 or carlad@bittersandsweetsbar.com.
The staff, board of directors and volunteers of Tales ‘N’ Trails Museum are making plans for the group’s major fundraiser, “Shebang” on Sept. 26.
This year Shebang will join in all the celebrations for America’s 250th birthday.
Mark your calendar when the doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person and $350 for a table of eight. Shebang takes place in the H.J. Justin Building at 100 Clay Street.
The evening will feature a dinner prepared by local chefs, fun games where you could win a prize, live and silent auctions, plus the popular bucket auction where you never know who will win. A new menu is being served that will feature prime rib, roasted sweet potatoes, hominy casserole, broccoli salad and strawberry shortcake.
Reservations are being taken now, just call the museum at 825-5330. Proceeds from the Shebang help pay for annual operating costs of the museum. Call 825-5330 to purchase tickets, also visit the website at talesntrails.org to see auction items and learn more about the museum.
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