Colorado State University Extension
SafeFood Rapid Response Network

Go to Table of Contents for this issue

RESOURCES

Edited by: Stephanie Wallner, M.S., Mary Schroeder, M.S., R.D, Pat Kendall, Ph.D., R.D., Colorado State - Fall 2005

CSU Food Processing Lab

Housed in the Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, consultants with the CSU food processing lab are getting busier, as word gets out about the support services offered there. Anyone thinking of going into business selling a food product will find this a valuable resource. Assistance is provided in the areas of product development, nutritional analysis (based on ingredients and formulation provided by the client), and product labeling. Homemade products such as salsas, nutrition snack bars, barbeque sauce or jerky can be tested for both product safety and quality, including pH and water activity testing, color assessment, sensory analysis and shelf life evaluation. Prices vary according to the consulting or analytical services performed. To arrange an initial consultation, one can contact lab assistants Marisa Bunning or Janice Brown, under the direction of Dr. Martha Stone, faculty coordinator, at 970-491-3874. To view the Food Processing Support Services website, go to www.cahs.colostate.edu/fshn/foodsupport.asp

Holiday Resources on Food Safety

During the holidays, many people enjoy hosting and attending parties, potlucks, and other social events to celebrate the season with festive seasonal foods. Planning for these events should include food safety precautions to protect friends and family members from illnesses that can be caused by improper handling and preparation of holiday treats. However, this is a busy time of year for most people, and food safety concerns can easily be forgotten.

To make holiday planning a bit easier, there are several websites that offer helpful information and handouts about food safety risks, guidelines, proper preparation techniques, and even recipes to try. For more detailed information and holiday tips, see the websites listed below.

• www.cfsan.fda.gov/~pregnant/newhol.html
• www.cfsan.fda.gov/~pregnant/newall.html
• www.fsis.usda.gov/Fact_Sheets/Seasonal_Food_Safety_Fact_Sheets/index.asp
• www.fsis.usda.gov/OA/news/2003/gifts.htm
• www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/foodrink.html

Disclaimer: The information available through this Web site is provided as a public service and for educational purposes only. All efforts have been made to ensure the material on this information system is accurate and up to date. However, Colorado State University Extension and SafeFood cannot be held responsible for any circumstances resulting from its use, unavailability, or possible inaccuracy. Also, reference in this Web to any specific commercial products, process, service, manufacturer, or company does not constitute its endorsement or recommendation.