Types of food that can cause food poisoning if eaten raw

Eating raw foods can sometimes seem healthy or convenient, but not all foods are safe to consume without cooking. Certain types can harbor harmful bacteria, parasites, or toxins that cause food poisoning. Here are some common culprits:

1. Raw Eggs – Often used in homemade mayonnaise, salad dressings, or cookie dough, raw eggs can carry Salmonella, which causes stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fever.

2. Raw Meat (especially chicken and pork) – Uncooked meat can be contaminated with E. coli, Salmonella, or Listeria. Chicken, in particular, can carry Campylobacter, a common cause of foodborne illness.

3. Raw Seafood (like sushi and oysters) – While popular in many cultures, raw fish can contain parasites or bacteria like Vibrio. Shellfish, especially oysters, can carry norovirus or hepatitis A.

4. Raw Milk and Dairy Products – Unpasteurized milk may contain dangerous microbes that are usually killed during pasteurization, such as Listeria, E. coli, and Brucella.

5. Raw Sprouts (e.g., alfalfa, bean sprouts) – These grow in warm, moist conditions that are perfect for bacterial growth. They can carry Salmonella and E. coli.

To reduce your risk of food poisoning, it’s best to cook these foods properly and handle them with care. Clean, separate, cook, and chill—these four kitchen safety rules go a long way…CONTINUE MORE READING>>>