Summer vacation has ended and students are back in the classroom.  The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is reminding parents to follow some simple safety guidelines as they pack those healthy choices in their children’s lunches.  Before packing lunches, wash your hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds.  Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing each food item and before the next item.  Use at least two ice sources to keep perishable food items cold.  Use insulated containers to best keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot.    Discard used paper bags and used food packaging.  When reheating leftovers cover food for safe, even heating and to hold in moisture.  Contact Cassandra Hackstock, St. Clair County MSU Extension Nutrition Program Instructor for more information at (810) 989-6935