The holidays are a common time for food items to be used for gift exchanges. However, is this really a good idea for a gift? What should you do if you receive a home-processed food item?
It is always best to err on the side of caution, even if you know the person giving the food item. While some recipes such as jams and jellies present less of a risk due to their high sugar content and acidity levels; others like your friend’s famous chunky thick salsa processed in a jar could be harmful for consumption. Salsa on its own merit is not a reason for concern, but when processed in conditions that you do not know, it creates a reason for concern. Was the product acidified? How long was it processed? The mixture of some low-acid ingredients can create a perfect environment for Clostridium botulinum. And, if it is a thick salsa, chances are it was not processed long enough to destroy spoilage microorganisms.
You may receive a home-processed food item that you know was processed properly and feel safe consuming it.
Even in these cases, it is important to watch for spoilage that might occur. As always, if in doubt, throw it out. Just because a food item is sealed in a jar, does not mean that it is safe for consumption.
The act of giving homemade gifts is not something that should be shied away from, rather, consider how you accept and present homemade gifts. In some cases, an unpreserved food item is the safest gift. Reduced risk means there will be more time for holiday festivities!
