Pools & Pre-Cooked Ribs | Is There Really a 20-minute Rule?

Do you ever eat ribs poolside? Tony Roma’s pre-cooked ribs are the perfect snack, whether you’re lounging by the pool or going for a dip in the lake. Just make sure you wait at least 20 minutes before getting back into the water, just like our moms taught us. Right? Wrong! Wise though our mothers may be, this is one safety rule that you can toss.

How did this rule come into being, anyway? The idea behind it is not a bad one. Drowning is a major cause of injury and death around the world, and after you eat, blood and oxygen are directed to the digestive system. The cramping that could result from physical activity while your body is engaged in digesting could kill you! Or could it?

In fact, the biggest reasons for accidental drowning are a lack of swimming capability, poor supervision of children and a lack of barriers around the pool. So how many drownings are caused by swimming on a full stomach? None! According to the Washington Post, there’s never been a documented case of drowning caused by swimming with a full stomach. In fact, competitive swimmers often eat before they swim because they need the fuel.

Of course, for a less-experienced swimmer, cramping can happen if vigorous swimming occurs right after a meal. If you’re just relaxing in the pool, however, you should be fine if you’ve had something to eat right before you go in. One caveat: don’t drink alcohol with your poolside meal. Up to 70% of water recreation-related deaths in adults and adolescents involve the use of alcohol. It’s best to play it safe and wait to drink when you’re not around the water.

Now that you know you’re in no immediate danger if you eat before you swim, let the snacking begin! Tony Roma’s pre-cooked ribs are great on their own or used in your favorite summer recipes. To find Tony Roma’s pre-cooked ribs at a grocery store near you, visit the store locator on our website. To connect with the online community, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and check out our mouthwatering Pinterest boards.

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