• Wash your hands before preparing the food. It takes 15 seconds for soap and water to really clean your hands.



• Keep hot foods hot by storing them in a thermal container.



• Keep cold foods cold by packing them in an insulated bag with a freezer gel pack in it.



• Leftovers are easy meals, but they don't last forever. If leftovers have been in the refrigerator for two days or more, don't use them for your child's lunch.



• Do not use food that your child has left on his plate for a packed meal--use only food that has never been served. A partially finished meal is contaminated with bacteria which will continue to grow after the food is packed.



• Put the food in the refrigerator at the daycare or school the very first thing after you get there in the morning. Don't let it sit out.



• Single serving yogurt, pudding, pasta and stews are safe, but they cost more than food you cook and package yourself.



• Avoid preparing food if you have diarrhea. Consider using a frozen meal that comes in small portions with minimal added salt or a single serving meal in a can.



• Teach your child to wash her hands before eating.

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