The right container can help ensure that the food stays cold, but it’s always a good idea to take along a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the food while traveling. If you use a thermometer, though, be sure it is clean and measure temperature between bags to avoid punctures that may introduce cross contamination.

In addition, don’t use food containers to hold other non-food items.

You should also avoid placing the food container on a dirty surface, on the ground, or on the floor of a refrigerated truck where people walk. When you do this, the bottom of the container takes on dirt and bacteria that can be transferred to food if the container is then placed on a food preparation table at the agency or the donor’s business.

This cooler has a handle and wheels to prevent back strain when transporting food, but since it’s in contact with the ground, be sure you NEVER place it on a food preparation table, or you will risk contaminating food prepared later on that table with the bacteria from the bottom of the container.

Are there other ways I can cross-contaminate food?