FSM 367: Office Party Leftovers: Food Safety First

Transcript [Music] This is Susie Craig from Washington State University Extension. Staring at leftovers on the buffet table from your office holiday party? Bacteria in perishable food multiply quickly in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F. More than 2 hours in the danger zone from the home to buffet table means, in fact, your food may be dangerous. The 2 hours are cumulative, from the refrigerator until now. You may not know how long dishes sat in the danger zone. If they were cooled properly, or if cross-contamination occurred. Reheating doesn’t always make food safe since some bacteria produce heat-stable toxins. No one wants to waste food, the only safe choice is to discard all perishable leftovers. Cookies, cakes, candies, and bread may be saved for later. Protect your coworkers, prioritize food safety. Thanks for listening to Food Safety in a Minute. [Music] Resources Partnership for Food Safety Education. Five Food Safety Tips for Holiday Buffets. https://fightbac.org/holidaybuffetsafety/. Accessed online 11/5/25.