1. It’s In The Bag
Coleslaw can be made at home by hand or you can buy bags of shredded cabbage ready to mix. Store-bought shredded cabbage comes in a bag that is specially treated to retain the freshness of the cabbage and retard spoilage. The instructions for bags of coleslaw state that washing is not necessary, however, washing the pre-shredded cabbage does not make it spoil any quicker. If you are making your own coleslaw, wash the cabbage thoroughly before you shred it. Don’t wash the whole head of cabbage; wash only the amount you are using for coleslaw. Unwashed cabbage can carry bacteria and toxins from shipping or packing as well as from the farm. Trim off any parts of the cabbage that have holes, spots or are discolored. Discard any pieces of cabbage that are wilted.
2. A Mixed
Place the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage in a clean glass bowl. Add the coleslaw dressing to the shredded cabbage and mix thoroughly so all pieces of shredded cabbage are coated with the dressing. Use only enough coleslaw mix as you need for the meal. If you have leftover shredded cabbage, keep it in the special bag and refrigerate it so the shredded cabbage stays fresh. Allow the coleslaw and dressing to “marry” for 30 minutes at room temperature before putting it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together and the coleslaw will be more flavorful if allowed to “marry” before serving, but make sure the cabbage is never left at room temperature longer than 2 hours. After 2 hours at room temperature, the risk of food poisoning in coleslaw increases.
3. Hold It Cold
Cold foods must be kept cold to reduce the risk of food poisoning. After mixing the dressing and shredded cabbage to make coleslaw, it can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After 2 hours, keep the coleslaw cold by putting it in the refrigerator or placing it in a “cold bath”. Surround the dish or bowl containing the coleslaw with either crushed ice or ice water to make a “cold bath” if the coleslaw is to remain on the table.
4. Capable Cabbage Containers
Store the coleslaw in the refrigerator using a sturdy plastic container with a tight fitting lid. Not only will the container keep out smells and moisture, but it will protect the coleslaw from contamination of foods stored above it.
About this Author
As a medical and fitness writer with 10 years of writing experience, K. Ring has published articles on many websites, including HappyNews.com, Essortment.com, DailyArticle.com and Pagewise.com. She received her nursing degree at Memorial Hospital and the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and has been a nurse for over 20 years.
