I don have time to go to the dining hall for lunch. How can I safely pack a lunch to eat between classes?
A. Insulated, soft-sided lunch boxes or bags are best for keeping perishable food cold, but metal or plastic lunch boxes and paper bags can also be used. If using paper lunch bags, create layers by double bagging to help insulate the food. An ice source, such as a small frozen gel pack or frozen juice box, should be packed with perishable food in any type of lunch bag or box. Of course, if there’s a refrigerator available, store perishable items there upon arrival. It’s important to keep perishable food cold. Harmful bacteria multiply rapidly in the “Danger Zone” – the temperatures between 40 and 140 °F. So, perishable food transported without an ice source won’t stay safe long. Prepackaged combos that contain luncheon meats along with crackers, cheese, and condiments must also be kept refrigerated. This includes luncheon meats and smoked ham that are cured or contain preservatives. For more information, see Keeping ‘Bag’ Lunches Safe.
