Many popular foods carry a hidden danger: foodborne illness. Explore which items to avoid and how to stay safe while enjoying your meals.
Deli Meat Risks
Deli meat has once again topped the list of risky foods. This staple, often found in sandwiches and salads, was linked to 165 illnesses and 87 hospitalizations due to listeria in 2024. The outbreak primarily stemmed from Boar’s Head products, which became infamous during a summer outbreak. Among the affected items were liverwurst and various cold cuts. When enjoying deli meat, it’s crucial to heat these products until they’re “piping hot” to mitigate risks. Choosing prepackaged options can also help, as these typically undergo less handling.
Cucumber Concerns
While cucumbers are often associated with healthy eating, they have been responsible for over 664 illnesses and 173 hospitalizations in 2024 alone. These outbreaks were traced back to whole cucumbers and sliced products sold at major supermarkets, with salmonella being the main culprit. To lower your risk, it's best to select cucumbers without bruises or damaged skin, wash them thoroughly, and peel the skin, though these methods cannot guarantee complete safety.
The Dangers of Raw Milk and Cheese
Another major threat comes from raw milk and raw cheese. These unpasteurized products led to 182 illnesses and 29 hospitalizations last year, mainly associated with E. coli and salmonella outbreaks. The Raw Farms products, specifically raw milk and cheese, highlighted the ongoing risks posed by unpasteurized dairy. Consumer Reports highly recommends avoiding these products entirely, particularly emphasizing the importance of allowing raw cheese to age for at least 60 days to kill harmful bacteria, as per FDA guidelines.
Soft Cheeses: Dangerous Dairy
Focusing on soft cheeses like cotija and queso fresco, these creamy delights were linked to 26 reported illnesses and 23 hospitalizations last year. Their high moisture content creates a breeding ground for listeria, making them particularly hazardous. To enjoy cheese safely, consider avoiding soft types or always opt for well-aged varieties.
Egg Safety Measures
Eggs, while a breakfast favorite, also carry risks associated with salmonella. In the past year, eggs were implicated in 93 illnesses and 34 hospitalizations. To stay safe, discard any eggs with cracked shells, ensure thorough cooking until both the yolk and whites are firm, and wash your hands after handling.
Onion Woes
Onions tucked into burgers can hide danger as well. A cluster of illnesses originating from onions led to 104 reported cases and even one death linked to E. coli in last year's McDonald’s Quarter Pounders. To avoid such risks, peel away the first few layers of whole onions and opt for purchasing whole produce to decrease your chances of contamination.
Leafy Greens: A Hidden Hazard
Leafy greens may represent health, but they have also seen a significant rise in foodborne illnesses, with 117 cases and 36 hospitalizations reported due to E. coli. Because many are grown near livestock, runoff can contaminate them. When eating out, consider steering clear of salads or raw greens, while at home it’s safer to opt for hydroponically grown varieties that have less exposure to fecal matter.
Raw Carrots: Double Trouble
Despite their popularity, raw carrots were responsible for 48 illnesses, 20 hospitalizations, and one death linked to E. coli last year. A recall by Grimmway Farms on organic carrots reflects the need for careful handling. Washing and peeling may help, but cook them to be completely safe.
Organic Basil: A Surprising Suspect
Organic basil seems harmless but has been linked to 36 illnesses and 4 hospitalizations due to salmonella contamination. Again, washing and cooking are recommended to reduce these risks effectively.
Cooked Poultry and Meat Precautions
Though raw poultry seemed safe in terms of illness reports, cooked poultry and meat also saw concerns last year due to listeria. While there were no reported illnesses directly associated with cooked poultry and meat products, Consumer Reports continued to advise thoroughly reheating frozen foods to eliminate potential bacterial risks.
Awareness of the latest findings from Consumer Reports is pivotal for maintaining food safety. Understanding how to handle these foods and recognizing the dangers can shield you from foodborne illnesses. By making informed choices and taking safety precautions—such as heating, washing, or even avoiding certain items entirely—you can enjoy your meals without unnecessary risks. Remember that proper food handling is key to a healthy lifestyle.