Tag: Food safety tips

Yes, you can absolutely get food poisoning from plant-based meat. While a common myth suggests only animal products pose a risk, many plant-based foods can also harbor disease-causing microbes if mishandled. Understanding the specific risks associated with plant-based meat is crucial for ensuring food safety in your kitchen.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around one in 20,000 eggs may be contaminated with Salmonella, making the practice of eating raw eggs risky for foodborne illness. While a popular notion for health enthusiasts, understanding these risks and exploring safer methods is crucial.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG)'s 2025 'Dirty Dozen' list, strawberries rank among the top fruits for pesticide residue, even after washing. This information raises valid questions for many health-conscious consumers: should I eat non-organic strawberries, or is it better to splurge on organic versions?

Rice is a staple food for billions, but its ability to absorb arsenic from soil and water has raised concerns. Certain types of rice and specific cooking methods can significantly reduce the amount of arsenic consumed, empowering you to make safer dietary choices.

Taro, a staple crop for thousands of years, is highly nutritious when prepared correctly. However, both the corm and leaves of this ancient plant contain needle-like calcium oxalate crystals and are toxic if eaten raw, causing immediate and severe irritation.

According to a 2014-16 FDA study, approximately 1 in 5 avocado skins tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes, underscoring the importance of proper handling and knowing when should I not eat my avocado. Recognizing the signs of spoilage is crucial for both food safety and taste.

According to the World Health Organization, processed meats—including many smoked varieties—are classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, a category with strong evidence linking consumption to cancer. So, is eating meat from a smoker bad? The answer is nuanced and depends on numerous factors, from cooking temperature and duration to the type of wood used.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 48 million people in the U.S. get sick from foodborne illnesses each year. Knowing how to tell if food is spoiled is a critical skill for preventing these illnesses and ensuring the safety of what you eat. Your senses are the first and best line of defense against potentially harmful bacteria and toxins in your food.

According to the World Health Organization, long-term exposure to inorganic arsenic, which can be found in high concentrations in some rice, is linked to an increased risk of cancer. This raises a critical question for home cooks everywhere: does cooking method affect arsenic levels, and if so, how can we prepare our food more safely?

According to a 2019 study published in BMC Public Health, frozen berries are a known potential source of foodborne illnesses like Norovirus and Hepatitis A, making safe handling crucial before consumption. While adding frozen berries to water can offer a flavorful and refreshing hydration boost, it is essential to understand the proper safety precautions and preparation methods to minimize any associated health risks.