Better bbqs: make a summer favorite healtier and safer

American Fitness, July-August, 2004

Getting the grill out is a summer ritual, but danger lurks beneath the sauce and trouble is stirring among the coals. Ribs dripping with sauce, roasted corn and juicy hamburgers can be a healthy summertime meal if prepared with some intelligent pre-planning," explains Jackie Keller, founder of NutriFit, a healthy meal delivery program in Southern California. Keller, whose clients have included Uma Thurman, Annabeth Gish and fitness expert Kathy Smith. offers six simple steps to make barbeques healthier for everyone.

1. Choosing the right ingredients is crucial.

* Select lean cuts of meat.

* Have your butcher grind a prime piece of beef or turkey for burgers.

* Fresh fish should be purchased in close proximity to the time you plan to use it.

2. At the park, pick your picnic spot carefully. Everyone wants to be under a tree, but bugs love trees, too. Also, things drop from trees. Therefore, it's better to be further away.

3. If meats are marinated before grilling, do NOT re-use the marinade to baste the meat. Raw meat juices and bacteria have seeped into the marinade, so prepare a separate one for basting.

4. Use low-calorie marinades to add flavor and zest without excess calories.

5. Cook meat thoroughly and use a meat thermometer to ensure proper temperatures are reached. Keller likes to cook meat in the oven first and finish cooking it on the grill. This limits the length of time it is exposed to extreme heat and reduces the potential for smoking and flames from dripping juices or sugary barbeque sauce.

6. Consider cooking in foil. This method creates a flavor trap and meats can be seasoned with lemon wine and fresh herbs. Foil also speeds cooking time.

7. Stock up on individual condiment packets or use squeeze bottles. This limits cross-contamination.

8. Invest in a pair of long-handled barbeque utensils so you stay a safe distance from the heat.

9. Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot. Don't bring food out until ready to serve. Use food tents and domes to protect food from insects.

10. Have anti-bacterial wipes available for your guests.

For information on NutriFit meals, products or educational programs, call (310) 473-1989 or visit www.nutrifitonline.com.