– Oysters
Oysters are seen as a delicacy in most parts of the world, however, before they are transformed into a hundred dollar dish, oysters perform a simple function on the ocean floor and that is filter feeding. Hence, if what they filter is polluted then the oysters are most likely ridden with bacteria as well.
The risk lies with consuming raw or undercooked oysters that carry harmful bacteria that can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
– Tuna
Another popular fish dish all over the world and according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, “responsible for over 268 poisoning outbreaks since 1990” is none other than tuna. This particular fish is prone to contamination by a bacterium known as scombrotoxin that can cause painful headaches and cramps.
The key to tuna and other fish is to ensure proper and appropriate cold storage as soon as it is out of the water.
– Cheese
By this point you’re thinking this is just a list of all your favorite comfort foods, but trust us, these facts are true. Most people do tend to get sick from cheese products consumed at home. In fact, it is especially dangerous to pregnant women as cheese can be contaminated with Salmonella or Listeria that can cause miscarriages.
Soft cheese such as brie and feta are usually unpasteurized and hence susceptible to harmful bacteria. Doctors recommend sticking to more trusting types and common cheese such as Cheddar or Gouda. Moreover, it is best to look for a ‘pasteurized’ label on the cheese you might buy and storing it properly in the fridge.
– Berries
These little delicious items have caused quite an uproar in the way they were stored, produced and the resulting outbreaks of diseases. The most famous case was that of a Hepatitis A outbreak in 2013 from a batch of frozen strawberries in a school in California.
Frozen produce carries the bacteria strain from where it is originally grown so preventive measures should be taken there. The chances are still slim for getting sick from berries, however, it is important to ensure proper storage and know where your produce is coming from.