Research has found that onions contain parasites such as Cryptosporidium, Shigella, and Salmonella. Supermarket avoidance method: Buy frozen onions, as indoor environments are prone to bacterial growth.
First food: Onions. Dirt: Research has found that onions contain parasites such as Cryptosporidium, Shigella, and Salmonella. Supermarket avoidance method: Buy frozen onions, as indoor environments are prone to bacterial growth. Household avoidance method: Turn the faucet on full blast to wash the dirt, and peel the outer skin of the onion while washing.
Second food: Chicken. Dirt: A study of 484 broiler chickens found that 42% were infected with Campylobacter and 12% with Salmonella. The latest survey found that Americans eat 70 pounds (35 kg) of chicken per person annually, more than beef, pork, and turkey. Supermarket avoidance method: Choose chickens raised in free-range farms. These chickens have larger living spaces and are slaughtered in smaller batches, making them safer. Household avoidance method: To avoid food poisoning, soak the raw meat in clean water after purchasing it, instead of placing it directly on a roasting dish. This shortcut can prevent infections from chicken and other foods. Remember to clean the knife and cutting board when cutting meat.
Third food: Ground beef. Dirt: A survey of meat in hamburgers found it contains 53% Clostridium perfringens, 30% Staphylococcus, and 12% Listeria. Supermarket avoidance method: Choose irradiated ground beef at the supermarket; the packaging usually has a label indicating it has been irradiated. Household avoidance method: Adding fresh oregano oil to beef can prevent the growth of E. coli.
Fourth food: Eggs. Dirt: Although pasteurization has reduced the amount of Salmonella in eggs to very low levels, eggs still contain bacteria. Choose fully cooked eggs instead of runny fried eggs. Supermarket avoidance method: Check the egg carton for words indicating it has been pasteurized at high temperatures, and also check the expiration date. Inspect each egg for cracks, as bacteria can easily get in through them. Household avoidance method: Store eggs in their carton in the coolest part of the refrigerator. Remember to wash your hands after handling eggs.
Fifth food: Ground turkey. Dirt: This is potentially the dirtiest poultry meat. Research has found that 1/4 of ground turkey contains Listeria, Campylobacter, Clostridium, or a combination of the three. Supermarket avoidance method: Choose organic turkey. At checkout, use a special meat bag to place the turkey. Household avoidance method: Change your mindset about poultry. Imagine the poultry is contaminated. Use high heat to sanitize and wash dishes that have held raw turkey, and wipe with paper towels, not sponges.
Sixth food: Raw oysters. Dirt: Oysters contain Norovirus (a pathogen found in the ocean), Campylobacter, and Vibrio, which can cause diarrhea. Supermarket avoidance method: Buy oysters that have been handled by a famous chef. Household avoidance method: It's simple, just eat cooked oysters. If you must eat raw oysters, be sure to read the purchase recommendations carefully.
Seventh food: Pre-packaged lettuce. Dirt: Research has found that 11% of food poisoning cases are caused by pre-packaged lettuce. Supermarket avoidance method: Lettuce wrapped in plastic wrap is not free of pathogens; you can choose loose vegetables. Household avoidance method: Before eating, wash each leaf of the lettuce under running tap water.
Eighth food: Peaches. Dirt: To make the surface of peaches look smooth and clean, farmers spray pesticides on them several weeks before harvesting. It is reported that by the time peaches reach consumers, their surfaces are covered with 9 layers of pesticides. Supermarket avoidance method: Use bags with an organic label to peaches and other fruits. Household avoidance method: Many products have a layer of wax to keep the pesticides effective, so you can wash off this layer with a sponge or brush.
Ninth food: Cold cuts. Dirt: Research has found that cold cuts can easily cause Listeria, as Listeria thrives more easily in cold environments. Supermarket avoidance method: Avoid cold cuts from the deli section. Household avoidance method: Spread mustard on sandwiches, as it can kill 90% of Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella within 2 hours.