Deadliest Holiday Foods

It's that time of year again. We're overcome by the thrill of holiday shopping, parties, family gatherings, out-of-town guests and everything else that makes up this special time of year.

But in the midst of all the holiday hustle and bustle, we often lose sight of what's really important: Just how long should those festive food trays stay out in the open air? This year, our Christmas gift to you is a guide to food-poisoning prevention.

Foodborne illness is no joke. An estimated 76 million Americans are leveled by foodborne illness annually. At least 5,200 will die. The elderly and individuals with compromised immune systems are at the greatest risk. But most food safety experts say 'tis the season to be cautious because even the healthiest person is a potential victim.

Most of us will attend or host at least one gathering over the holidays. And chances are there will be plenty of festive food spreads that include everything from cold cuts to dips to desserts. But have no fear, you can take measures to ward off poisoning your guests or being poisoned by your hostess.

"At most parties, they put out cold cuts, pies, cut-up fruit, and most people gets caught up with your guests, they don't remember the 'two-hour rule.' If food is left out more than two hours, bacteria grows to harmful levels and that's when people get sick.

You have to keep an eye on the food. If guests come at 4 p.m. and the food is still there at 8 p.m., you have to realize that people can get sick. You lose track of things during the holidays with so much going on.

Another error made by well-intentioned hosts and hostesses is the topping off of a dish that's been sitting for an extended amount of time. You shouldn't dump fresh food atop old food. When you do refill a dish, empty and wash the platter or serve the new food on a new platter. It's a simple step in reducing the risk of foodborne illness. Watch the clock -- never leave food out for longer than two hours.

If you're a concerned guest, you can nicely ask the host if they would like you to put the food in the refrigerator so that the food doesn't go bad.

Click here for some popular foods that can be hazardous to your health.

What are some of your holiday food safety habits you follow?

Here are some recommended resources to help keep you healthy (click on the image to purchase):