Caution: Which Foods Are Most Likely to Carry Bacteria?
Introduction: Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that approximately 1 in 6 Americans suffer from foodborne illnesses each year. The recent outbreak of E. coli has become a major public health challenge worldwide, making it necessary to once again remind the public to pay attention to personal hygiene and be vigilant against illness entering through the mouth. According to the latest report from the U.S. magazine "Prevention," Dr. Francisco Diez, a professor of food safety and microbiology at the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Minnesota, has listed safety precautions for 6 types of fruits and vegetables most susceptible to bacterial contamination.
1. Sprouts
Growing in a humid environment, they are prone to bacterial growth, especially E. coli and Salmonella.
Expert Advice:
Thorough rinsing can reduce or remove bacteria. Healthy individuals can resist small amounts of bacteria. However, children under 8, adults over 65, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems should avoid eating sprouts. Storing sprouts in the refrigerator at 1-5°C can inhibit bacterial growth.
2. Lettuce
The leaves of lettuce have a coarser texture than smoother ones like cabbage, making them more susceptible to bacteria. Expert Advice: Before eating, remove the outer leaves and wash them thoroughly. Soaking them in clean water for a few minutes makes it easier to remove dirt and other attachments from the leaves.
3. Tomatoes
Studies have found that tomatoes can easily transmit Salmonella. Expert Advice: Before eating raw, tomatoes should be washed thoroughly with clean water and then dried with a clean towel. Tomatoes with damaged skin are more susceptible to bacteria and should be avoided. If the skin of a tomato is accidentally broken during storage, it must be cooked before eating, as this is the only way to kill the bacteria.
4. Cantaloupe
The rough skin of melons like cantaloupe and watermelon can easily harbor bacteria. When people eat these fruits, they often don't wash the rind. However, when a knife cuts through the melon, bacteria have the opportunity to enter the flesh. Expert Advice: Before cutting, it's best to wipe the surface of the melon clean with a soft brush dipped in clean water.
5. Spinach
Wrinkled leaves like those of spinach can easily harbor bacteria. Additionally, like other crops, spinach can easily become contaminated with animal feces. Expert Advice: Before cooking, soak and dry the spinach to reduce bacteria.