Is that paranoia? Even years before the concept of online food ordering, during the time when you’d have to call the restaurant over the phone, such as a pizza restaurant, there was no such thing as not eating the pizza immediately. Aside from the fact pizza is always irresistible, pizza chains like Pizza Hut will guarantee pizza arrives fresh and hot.
But still, food safety scientists are not convinced, saying it is “dangerous” is immediately consume food delivered to you.
‘Danger zone’
These scientists are not saying those foods are not safe to eat, well, as long as they are still hot. But what are the chances of getting food as hot as when you receive it at your table in an in-person restaurant?
According to them, there’s a term known as a “danger zone,” wherein food is stored between 40 degrees and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
They said that within this range, microorganisms can multiply rapidly, and this isn’t to send you shivers, but they can even double every 20 minutes. So, when food enters than danger zone, they might not be safe to eat. The longer the food stays in this danger zone, the higher the risk to your health. However, during hot summer days, the danger zone can shrink significantly.
How to compromise
It’s kind of weird not to consume food immediately after it has been delivered, but others choose to reheat it to avoid contamination and health risks.
Also, you might want to order outside peak times. For instance, if you are just working or doing business at home, you can order at around 1 p.m. instead of the usual lunch hour. That said, you are avoiding peak times when deliveries may take longer.
Food safety scientists recommend avoiding ordering high-risk food such as rice, fried rice, and salads. Instead, save them for in-person restaurant ordering.
Third, pick up the food at the gate or your porch pronto. Avoid letting the food sit outside, unless you want pets to pick it up for you.
It’s also important to always wash your hands before eating. This should be a no-brainer. Inspect your order before consumption. Use your senses. Ensure the food packaging is sealed without signs of tampering or damage. If something is not right, throw it away and contact the restaurant. What’s money when you can risk your health?
Reheating food is also a good habit. It doesn’t lessen its freshness.
“I would lean toward the safe side with a delivery service and always reheat cooked foods. For example, I reheat meat and poultry dishes to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re reheating a liquid sauce or soup, heat them to a boil,” University of Connecticut associate professor Dennis D’Amico, whose expertise includes food microbiology and safety, recommended.
He added that if reheating using an oven, it should be set at 325 degrees Fahrenheit. If reheating using a microwave, the food must be covered. Do not compromise your health.