Combines will soon be rolling across Kansas for wheat harvest! Part of this event is feeding the people working hard to harvest the wheat in a timely and safe manner. So start planning now for meals in the field!
Many foods can be prepared and frozen for easy preparation. Use freezer-safe containers for best results. Pack foods in the amounts you plan to use and reduce leftovers. Foil baking pans covered with heavy aluminum foil work well for casseroles. Freezer reclosable bags and rigid plastic freezer containers are best for baked goods or frozen fruit.
Plan now to transport food. Keep cold foods cold, below 40°F, and hot foods hot, above 140°F. Use ice chests with plenty of ice for cold foods and beverages. For hot foods, there are many insulated options to use, or equipment that can plug into your vehicle. A simple option is wrapping the hot dish is several large towels inside an insulated carrier.
Remember the four steps to food safety, even in the middle of wheat harvest:
- Wash your hands – bring soap and wet wash rags to clean dirty hands.
- Keep hot foods hot – keep hot food above 140°F.
- Keep cold foods cold – keep cold food below 40°F.
- Separate raw foods from ready-to-eat foods – this helps prevent cross contamination.
Keep meals simple and easy to grab-and-go. Have a great and safe wheat harvest.
