Illinois, Do Not Serve These 8 Foods At Your 4th Of July Cookout

If you're bringing a dish to a cookout next week or getting your menu together, this one is for you.

I love cookouts, especially on the 4th of July. Fireworks, freshly grilled burgers, spiked lemonade, it all screams summer. But there's some stuff you just shouldn't have on the menu at a cookout.

Obviously you have to make menu adjustments if vegans or someone with specific food requests will be at the cookout. It can be tricky to figure out what to serve if you're the one hosting the cookout and if you know you should bring a dish, what even that should be. Should you make it? Stop by the store and get something? (That's always my favorite option.)

What we definitely don't want at the 4th of July cookout is food poisoning. And unfortunately, it's really hot outside and that will impact the way stuff tastes and if it's even edible. And no a cooler won't always help you keep stuff fresh.

Daily Meal has a list of things you shouldn't serve at a cookout. There are some good ideas on it but you will not be getting my deviled eggs off my plate. Absolutely not. You also won't get my s'mores chocolate from me either. But most of the list is based on what can last in the sun and what cookout guests might want in the first place.

Scroll down to see the list of 8 foods that you shouldn't have at a 4th of July cookout!