Image number 32 of the current section of 8 Tips for Enjoying National Picnic Month in Cosentino UK

8 Tips for Enjoying National Picnic Month

Summer is here and we are all eager to enjoy more of the outdoors. Why not enjoy a picnic to celebrate National Picnic Month?

Here’s our 8 top tips to packing a healthy and safe picnic, to be enjoyed in the park, in the country, on the beach – or simply your garden!

Outdoor Picnic

8 TIPS TO PREPARE A SAFE AND HEALTHY PICNIC LUNCH BOX

  1. Planning: organise your menu to ensure that you do not lack proteins or vitamins. For this, you must consider the recommended proportions for each group of food. You should also think about easy-to-transport foods that do not need a fridge (or that can last a few hours outside), that are healthy and simple to prepare, such as pieces of fruit, vegetable sticks or salads. Make sure you also take plenty of drinks (ideally water) to stay hydrated in the warmer weather to avoid dehydration.
  2. Choice of container: special attention must be paid to the material of the container in which the food will be transported. Glass, for example, is much more fragile and heavier, but at the same time more hygienic and comfortable since it allows eating directly from the container. On the other hand, plastic is lighter, but less hygienic, since it is more difficult to clean when the food contains oil, fat, or some sauce. It should be noted that both materials can be microwave oven safe, since only the water molecules released by food are heated and therefore there is no risk for food safety.
  1. Sauces: avoid egg-based preparations, especially if it is raw, such as fresh mayonnaise. Try to add any type of sauce at the same time that you go to eat as opposed to before, as this will help to avoid cross contamination.
  1. Colourful food: as well as looking more appealing, creating dishes with various food colours, spices and sauces generally makes for a more nutritious and flavoursome meal.
  1. Dairy products: it is advisable to prioritise the use of cured cheeses over homemade to ensure better food preservation, especially during the warmer weather.
  1. 48 hours: always be cautious and do not consume food prepared more than 48 hours ago if you are not sure if it has been prepared and stored correctly.
  1. Reuse: for greater sustainability and to avoid wasting food, it is advisable to reuse the food that you have left over. However, do not freeze the prepared food again, as it could lead to food poisoning.
  2. Prevention measures: do not forget to follow the preventive measures recommended by the health authorities regarding the social distancing, hand washing and the use of masks.

With these top tips, you can prepare a delicious and safe picnic lunch box which will help you enjoy a day out with the family.

Silestone Institute: is an international platform dedicated to researching and disseminating knowledge about the kitchen space, both domestically and professionally. The Institute is an initiative promoted by the Cosentino Group, a world leader in the production and distribution of cutting-edge innovative surfaces for architecture and design.