Double-dippers at holiday parties definitely make the naughty list

Holiday party warning: Beware of eggnog and double-dippers. Either could be a good way for bacteria such as Salmonella and E. Coli to join the party.

This Give ‘Em Health blog from the Hartford Courant shares tips from a University of Missouri food expert on how to avoid getting food poisoning at holiday gatherings. “Eggnog, with its raw eggs, is particularly dangerous. Make sure you know its refrigeration history before you imbibe.”

And then there’s this germy gem. “Double-dipping isn’t just tacky, it’s a good way to spread germs. So if you see someone dip, take a bite and dip again -- just keep walking.”

Yuck. Potlucks carry their own fear factor of bacteria in homemade dishes, this Los Angeles Times story says.

Still, parties are meant to gather and celebrate -- not obsess on getting sick. So, with these tips in mind, dine carefully -- and have fun.