Health & Safety Tips for BBQ Hosts

by Ann Hayward 05/22/2022

The rules and expectations for social gatherings have changed, casual summer BBQs included. With so many extra details and considerations to add into your event planning, even experienced hosts might feel discouraged about having to change their ways. Luckily, there are some simple ways to adjust your BBQ practice so you can adhere to health guidelines and make sure your guests feel safe and comfortable.

Here are some tips for food prep and serving to help:

Consider Packaged Condiments

While buying large containers of popular condiments is efficient, individually packaged condiments can help prevent the spread of germs. Instead of passing the ketchup and mustard around among all of your guests, stock up on packets. You can find individually packaged condiments, sauces and more at any restaurant supply store or online retailer for a good price. Having these available will put your guests at ease and keep your own condiments in the fridge. Just make sure to provide convenient trash and recycling for the waste.

For environmentally conscious hosts, the thought of creating extra waste with condiment packaging might not sound ideal. However, some companies offer biodegradable or even compostable packets of condiments that won’t end up in a landfill. These may cost more than your basic bulk packets but will help you take care of the environment and your health at the same time.

Cook With Skewers

Food on skewers has long been a BBQ tradition, from meats to veggies and everything in between. Conveniently, this is still a great way to cook and serve food at a small gathering without needing to share utensils or serving tools. For a main course, grill up some teriyaki chicken, bell peppers and pineapple. Exchange the chicken for mushrooms or marinated tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. You can even prepare some kid-friendly skewers in case you have picky eaters on the guest list.

For an extra treat, go beyond the grill with refreshing dessert skewers. Try fruit salad skewers with fresh berries, melon balls and grapes. Fruity gummy candy on a stick makes a fun and delicious dessert idea for all ages. If you like to bake, you can make skewered cake bites as a safe individually served sweet.

Set Up a Bussing Station

Proper cleanup is key for limiting the spread of germs and bacteria. While many hosts handle the end-of-party cleaning themselves, many guests love to help. One way you can accept help from the group while still staying healthy is to set up a convenient bussing station to gather used dishes, utensils and drink ware. This way the used items will pass through fewer hands on their way to the sink or dishwasher, and your guests can still take part.

To create a simple bussing station, buy some large plastic tubs and set them nearby the festivities. Label them for specific things like plates, silverware or cups. At the end of the BBQ, you will have all of your dirty dishes conveniently sorted and ready to wash with no needless passing around. Keeping trash or recycling close will make sure any paper or plastic waste is safely disposed of, as well.

These are just a few ways to make your next outdoor party a little safer and healthier. With only a little prep time, you can make a vast difference in the health and comfort of your guests and make your event a success.

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]