The Red Flags That Tell You To Skip A Grocery Store's Hot Bar

The grocery store can be bustling, noisy, and let's face it, a bit grimy. Ever spotted a half-drunk Starbucks frappe in an aisle, or reached for your favorite pack of protein bars only to find the box opened and pilfered? Aisles often feature not only interesting drinks, but also stray hairs, fingernails, and bits of fuzz. But as you escape the chaos of the aisles, drawn in by the enticing aroma of warm delicious food, you may end up at the grocery store's hot bar. Hot bars contain red flags too, whether it's the inconsistent temperatures of the food, the sneeze guards that need to be wiped down, or the amount of food stuffed into a tray. Hot food bars may smell delicious, but sometimes there's an unsanitary truth hiding behind it.

Ready-to-go meals are quick, easy, and affordable, offering a mouthwatering array of cultural delights for a different lunch every day. However, relying on these premade dishes comes with risks. Some hot bars are poorly managed, leaving you vulnerable to foodborne illnesses. Here's how to spot the pitfalls and avoid regrets on your next trip to the buffet station.

Hot bars may save time, but they may not save you from a stomach ache. In the United States, 48 million people fall victim to foodborne illnesses each year, according to the CDC. Cleanliness around food handling is crucial. Look out for employees wearing gloves at the hot bar and if there is a sneeze guard in place. A dirty sneeze guard indicates a lack of consistent cleaning, creating an easier route for bacteria and germs to navigate to your food.

Temperature matters too. If food is spilling out of its containers, it's likely not maintaining a safe temperature. This is because the food isn't rotated, therefore the items on the top of the stack will cool, while the items in the warming tray will maintain a food-safe temperature. Hot food should be at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit and there's usually a thermometer around for you to check. Remember, appearances can be deceiving — be mindful of when the food was put out and how the staff ensures freshness.

Hot bars aren't the only players in the game — cold bars have their own rules. Cold food must be stored at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. While trays are often set on ice, the ice should be replenished regularly to ensure a consistent temperature. Remember, food enters the danger zone if left at room temperature for more than two hours. Also, check that each dish has its own tongs or serving utensils to minimize cross-contact — no one wants their fruit mingling with their meatballs.

Whether you're craving a warm meal or need a quick bite before diving back into your day, hot bars offer undeniable convenience. By staying observant and understanding food safety practices, you can easily decide when a grocery store hot bar is a delicious addition to your day or a skip-worthy option. So next time the Whole Foods hot bar's best offerings draw you in from the produce section, take a moment for a quick inspection — your stomach will thank you.