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Food Safety
Foodborne illness can develop quickly in summer heat. Know the rules for keeping food safe and what to do if you get sick.
If food has been sitting out for more than 2 hours in summer heat don't eat it! When in doubt, throw it out.
Food Safety Basics
Food safety is easy to overlook, especially in warm weather. A few simple habits can protect you and the people with you.
International Visitors
Bringing Food Into the United States
International visitors traveling to the US for the World Cup should be aware of customs rules around bringing food across the border. Some foods are restricted or prohibited from entering the United States.
USDA FSIS: Bringing Food to the World CupWhat to Watch For
These practical guidelines apply to anyone eating outdoors this summer.
Keep cold food cold
Use a cooler with ice or ice packs and keep it in the shade. Avoid opening it repeatedly. If the ice has melted and food feels warm, don't eat it.
Keep hot food hot
Hot food should be steaming when served. If it's been sitting out and is no longer hot to the touch, don't eat it.
The 2-hour rule
Refrigerated food left out in summer heat for more than 2 hours should be discarded. On very hot days above 90°F, that window drops to 1 hour. When in doubt, throw it out.
High-Risk Groups
Some people are more vulnerable to serious complications from foodborne illness. If you or someone with you falls into one of these groups, take extra care.
Pregnant women
Pregnancy weakens the immune system's ability to fight foodborne pathogens. Avoid raw or undercooked foods, unpasteurized products, and foods that have been sitting out.
Young children
Children under five are at higher risk of serious illness from bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. Avoid raw or undercooked meats, unpasteurized juices, and foods left out in heat.
Older adults
The immune system weakens with age, this makes older adults more susceptible to foodborne illness and its complications. Follow safe food handling practices carefully at outdoor events.
Immunocompromised individuals
People with weakened immune systems from illness, medication, or treatment are at higher risk of severe foodborne illness. Avoid foods that cannot be verified as safely stored or prepared.
Signs of Foodborne Illness
Foodborne illness can appear within hours or days of eating contaminated food. Most cases resolve on their own, but some require medical care. Symptoms can include:
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach cramps
- Diarrhea, which may be watery or bloody
- Fever and chills
- Headache and muscle aches
Seek medical care if you experience
Bloody diarrhea, a fever above 102°F, symptoms lasting more than three days, signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no urination, or dizziness, or if a child under five or an older adult is affected. Go to urgent care or call 911 for severe symptoms.
Stay hydrated if you experience vomiting or diarrhea. Drink water, broth, or an electrolyte solution in small, frequent sips. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks which can worsen dehydration.
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