The romantic version of the summer picnic includes packing a wicker basket and spreading out a red gingham blanket on the ground. And not a single ant comes by to bother you.

But the reality is most picnics involve leaving a lot of food out in the hot sun. If not done right, this could be the makings for an unpleasant picnic that your friends and family won't soon forget.

Londa Nwadike is a food safety specialist.  She spoke with Vermont Edition about how to do it right.