Giving food gifts this season? Great idea—if they keep their peak quality and stay clean and safe en route. Give recipients a heads-up so your gift doesn’t sit out too long.
Pack gifts in clean, well-protected containers. Pack perishables frozen or refrigerator cold, in an insulated cooler or heavy box with cold packs or dry ice. Mark “Perishable—Keep Refrigerated” and ship for overnight delivery.
Open any food gifts you receive immediately. Perishable foods don’t stay safe or keep the best quality for long, even in the refrigerator. Some cured meats (hard salami, dry cured ham) don’t need refrigeration. Perishables, including other meats and most hams, fish, and poultry, should be refrigerator cold on arrival. If not, toss; request a replacement or a refund.
Consider sending these healthful, holiday food gifts:
- Fresh fruit. Some mail-order houses specialize in shipping seasonal fruit.
- Nuts and dried fruit. Fill a fanciful bowl with your creative trail mix.
- Spice and herbal teas. Pack containers of loose tea or tea bags with colorful mugs.
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