Nice day for a Picnic?

Picnicking has always been a great British tradition in summertime, whatever the weather. So if it's simple sandwiches by the sea or a grand hamper and champagne, just follow these tips for the perfect picnic.

Top picnic tips

• Keep ice packs in the freezer so that they are always ready to use
• Be sure to keep cold foods cold. Use clean, insulated coolboxes. Harmful bacteria grow in lukewarm foods
• It is especially important to keep cooked meats, pies and cream cool
• The coolbox should be packed with 75% food and 25% ice packs
• Pack foods that are already cold or frozen. Don't assume that the coolbox will cool food that is warm.
• Don't take food out of the fridge to pack into the coolbox until the last minute
• Use a separate coolbox for drinks so the one containing food which needs to be kept cool will not be constantly opened and closed
• Keep the coolbox in the shade. Do not keep it in a hot car or in the sun
• Keep the lid to the coolbox closed as much as possible and avoid repeated openings
• If you can't wash your hands before eating, take antiseptic hand wipes or hand gel. These can be purchased from chemists or camping shops
• Choose your picnic spot carefully and avoid areas used by animals
• When food is taken out of the coolbox it should not be kept out for more than a couple hours, and any leftovers should be thrown away

Picnics are to be enjoyed, so don't spoil your day by risking anyone's health because of bad food preparation, storage or serving. Follow the top picnic tips and your picnic should be great. Each year it is estimated that as many as 5.5 million people in the UK may suffer from foodborne illnesses - that's 1 in 10 people.