Be careful: 5 common foods that can cause food poisoning

Food contamination can occur during production, processing, storage, transportation, or preparation . In all cases, food is contaminated with microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, or their toxins, which, when ingested, cause food poisoning. What are 5 common foods that can cause this condition?

Both Medline Plus and the Mayo Clinic indicate that there are 5 foods that are the most dangerous:

1. Raw or undercooked meats (chicken, beef, pork, turkey): These may contain bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Clostridium perfringens. It's critical to cook them to safe internal temperatures (e.g., poultry to 165°F, ground beef to 160°F).

2. Fresh fruits and vegetables: They can become contaminated at any stage, from the farm to the kitchen. Washing them thoroughly under running water is essential to reduce the risk.

3. Eggs and egg dishes: Must be thoroughly cooked (to 160ºF) to avoid bacteria such as Salmonella.

4. Seafood and fish: Must be cooked to 145°F to kill harmful germs.

5. Leftovers and casseroles: It is important to reheat to 165°F and refrigerate within two hours of preparation to prevent bacterial growth.

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How to handle food in a healthy way?

It is essential to follow good food handling practices to prevent contamination and the growth of harmful bacteria. Some actions include: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food, and after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or touching animals. Place fruits and vegetables under running water, scrubbing hard skin with a clean brush. Clean cutting boards, utensils, dishes, and countertops with soap and hot water after preparing each type of food. Do not wash meat, poultry, fish, or eggs to avoid spreading bacteria through splashes.

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▪️Never place cooked food on plates that have previously held raw food without washing it first.▪️When using a microwave, cover, stir, and turn food for even cooking, and let it stand before eating.▪️Thaw food in the refrigerator, in cold water (changing the water every 30 minutes), or in a microwave; never at room temperature.

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