Food poisoning is still a serious threat to the health of Americans nationwide. But as the number of food poisoning cases tied to restaurant and food distributing companies continues to grow, few people discuss the risks associated with food poisoning cases tied to items we use or consume regularly inside of our own homes.
Each year, 48 million people get sick due to food poisoning across the country, and out of this staggering amount of individuals, at least 128,000 are hospitalized. About 3,000 die yearly also because of food poisoning incidents.
In order to help our readers and clients, we decided to list a few food items that may end up exposing you or a loved one to risks if you’re not paying attention.
According to experts, prewashed or precut fruits and vegetables should always be avoided. Why? Because when food items are handled and processed, they are more likely to being contaminated. Instead of buying bagged prewashed salads, experts urge consumers to buy unwashed and uncut produce in small amounts. Instead of wasting the products, consume them in about three days and avoid food poisoning by washing them thoroughly before consumption.
But that’s not all. When thinking about consuming raw eggs, experts urge you to think again.
Raw or undercooked eggs, experts say, are often linked to Salmonella food poisoning outbreaks. In order to avoid them, make sure to always cook your eggs before eating. In the 1980s and early 1990s, there was a major Salmonella epidemic tied to raw eggs, but the most recent happened in 2010, and at least 2,000 people fell ill after eating contaminated eggs. While the risk is lower now, it’s important to note that cooking your eggs thoroughly will help you to prevent this type of food poisoning.
Other items consumers should avoid in order to avoid food poisoning outbreaks are unpasteurized milk, also known as raw milk, and packaged juices.
According to food safety experts, raw milk is often contaminated with bacteria, parasites, and viruses. While the product is not widely consumed in America, it has made at least 148 people sick between 1998 and 2011.
Packed juices that aren’t pasteurized are also a risk. According to experts, one of the most memorable packaged juice outbreaks in the United States occurred in 1996. Experts tell consumers they are better off steering away from this type of product at all costs.
For more items to avoid, follow this link to read the full report.
