Dustin Gandof
Camping Cuisine: Expert Advice On Choosing Safe And Nutritious Foods
Planning a camping trip can be just as much fun as the adventure itself. However, when it comes to food, it’s not only a question of taste, but also safety. Knowing what food to pack isn’t always straightforward. It’s a balance between practicality, nutrition, and keeping everything at a safe temperature. But don’t worry, we’ve got the lowdown here for you, direct from food safety experts!
Food That Travels Well
When you’re packing for your camping trip, the first thing to remember is to choose foods that travel well. Foods that are non-perishable, resist spoiling, and require minimal preparation are ideal options for your trips
Canned Goods And Other Essentials
According to the University of Georgia’s College of Family and Consumer Sciences (source), a top choice for non-perishable items is canned goods. Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables hold up well and provide excellent nutrition when you’re out on the trails. Don’t forget about canned juices, milk, and soups! If you opt for powdered soup, just remember to pack extra water to compensate.
Other essentials to consider are staples like sugar, salt, and pepper. You might also want to pack high-energy foods, especially if you’ll do demanding activities like hiking, climbing, or biking.
Amp Up The Camping Experience
Just because you’re in the wilderness, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some culinary delights. A list of cooking ingredients curated by Eureka Camping (source) provides some great ideas.
Gourmet Outdoors
Think creatively! You can make some tinned chilli more exciting with a dash of pepper and a sprinkle of cheese. Or how about using that powdered milk to whip up some fluffy pancakes for a hearty breakfast around the campfire? The combinations and possibilities are endless. Just remember to pack a can opener if you’re bringing canned goods!
Food Safety Measures
Because we’re talking about camping, it’s crucial that we discuss some necessary safety measures. The United States Department of Agriculture (source) provides some very useful guidance.
Keeping Perishables Safe
If you’re packing perishable foods, make sure they stay cold. Perishable foods need to be stored below 40°F to stay safe. Use a cooler or an insulated container with cold sources like ice or gel packs. Also, to ensure your perishable food stays cold enough, avoid opening the cooler too often.
Parting Advice
There you have it, a comprehensive guide to camping food, as advised by food safety experts. Remember that with a bit of planning and a few safety precautions, outdoor dining can be a safe and delicious part of your camping experience. Happy camping!
