Seniors and Food Poisoning
Q: As I get older, are there certain dietary changes I should make to help reduce my risk of contracting food poisoning?
A: To reduce risks of illness from bacteria in food, seniors (and others who face special risks of illness) are advised not to eat:
- Raw fish and shellfish.
- Hot dogs and luncheon meats, unless reheated until steaming hot.
- Raw or unpasteurized milk or soft cheeses unless labeled “made with pasteurized milk.”
- Unpasteurized refrigerated pâtés or meat spreads. Canned or shelf-stable items may be eaten.
- Refrigerated smoked seafood unless it is contained in a cooked dish, such as a casserole. Canned or shelf-stable smoked seafood may be eaten.
- Salads purchased from a store or deli, such as ham salad, chick salad, egg salad, tuna salad or seafood salad.
- Raw or lightly cooked eggs or products containing raw eggs such as salad dressings, cookie or cake batter, sauces and egg nog.
- Raw meat or poultry.
- Raw sprouts.
- Unpasteurized or untreated fruit or vegetable juice.
–Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration
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