URGENT UPDATE: Food safety experts are raising alarms about five common foods that diners should avoid at restaurants to prevent foodborne illness. With 1 in 6 Americans falling ill from contaminated food each year, these insights are critical for anyone dining out.
According to a recent report by The Washington Post, renowned food safety attorney Bill Marler and other experts have compiled a list of foods to skip, based on decades of outbreak data and firsthand experiences with severe food illnesses. As dining out resumes in full swing, understanding these risks is more vital than ever.
1. Bagged Salads and Leafy Greens: Experts unanimously warn against these seemingly healthy options. Leafy greens are often processed in large batches and can harbor dangerous bacteria that thrive without cooking. Marler himself avoids salads, citing their high risk for contamination.
2. Raw Sprouts: These crunchy additions might enhance your meal but are notorious for being breeding grounds for harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. Experts advocate treating sprouts with caution due to multiple outbreak histories linked to their consumption.
3. Deli Meats and Ready-to-Eat Foods: What may appear to be a safe choice can quickly turn hazardous. Cold cuts are frequently associated with Listeria outbreaks, particularly affecting pregnant individuals and those with weakened immune systems. Marler warns against ready-to-eat foods since they rely on proper handling and cold storage to avoid contamination.
4. Undercooked Ground Beef: While steaks may have shifted from being a risk, ground beef remains a concern. The grinding process distributes bacteria throughout the meat, necessitating thorough cooking to ensure safety. Many experts recommend ordering burgers well-done or avoiding them altogether to stay safe.
5. Fruit Cups and Pre-Cut Produce: Pre-sliced fruits may seem convenient, but they have been handled by numerous individuals, increasing the chances of contamination. Experts stress that once fruit is cut, it’s critical to ensure it’s stored and served properly to reduce risks.
With foodborne illness being alarmingly common, these insights serve as a reminder to exercise caution when dining out. The CDC emphasizes that while many restaurants adhere to safety protocols, certain items leave little room for error.
Stay informed and share these vital insights with friends and family. Your health could depend on it!
