Food poisoning is a common and preventable illness that occurs due to consuming contaminated foods or beverages. It often leads to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

While food poisoning can happen from various sources, being aware of foods that are more likely to cause it can help you minimize the risk. Here are 30 foods to avoid if you want to steer clear of food poisoning:.

1. Raw or Undercooked Meat and Poultry

Raw or undercooked meat and poultry can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter, which can cause severe food poisoning. Ensure these foods are properly cooked to kill any potential pathogens.

2. Raw Eggs

Raw eggs and dishes containing raw eggs, such as homemade mayonnaise or raw cookie dough, can contain Salmonella. Always cook eggs thoroughly until the yolks and whites are firm to reduce the risk.

3. Unpasteurized Dairy Products

Unpasteurized milk, cheese, and other dairy products can contain harmful bacteria like Listeria, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella. Opt for pasteurized options to minimize the risk of food poisoning.

4. Raw Shellfish

Raw or undercooked shellfish, including oysters, mussels, clams, and scallops, can be contaminated with Vibrio bacteria or Hepatitis A. Cook shellfish thoroughly to ensure safety.

5. Raw Sprouts

Raw sprouts like alfalfa, mung bean, or clover sprouts are prone to bacterial contamination, including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Cook them before consuming to reduce the risk of food poisoning.

6. Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables that are not washed thoroughly can harbor harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Rinse them under clean running water before consumption.

7. Uncooked Rice

Uncooked rice can contain spores of Bacillus cereus, a bacterium known to cause food poisoning. Cook rice properly and avoid leaving it at room temperature for an extended period.

8. Deli Meats

Deli meats, including ham, turkey, roast beef, and salami, can be a source of Listeria. Pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems should avoid deli meats.

9. Pre-Cut Melons

Pre-cut or pre-packaged melons have been associated with outbreaks of Salmonella and Listeria. It’s best to purchase whole melons and wash them thoroughly before cutting.

10. Unpasteurized Juice

Unpasteurized juices, especially apple cider and raw fruit juices, may contain harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. Choose pasteurized options or juice your own fruits.

11. Raw Fish

Raw fish dishes like sushi and sashimi can cause food poisoning if the fish is not of high quality or handled properly. Ensure you consume raw fish from reputable establishments.

12. Unpasteurized Honey

While honey is generally safe, it can sometimes contain the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism. Stick to pasteurized honey to reduce any potential risk.

13. Raw Dough

Consuming raw dough made with flour and eggs can expose you to harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. Avoid eating raw dough and instead bake it thoroughly.

14. Uncooked Hot Dogs

Uncooked or undercooked hot dogs can contain Listeria bacteria. Make sure to heat hot dogs until steaming hot before consumption, especially for pregnant women and children.

15. Refrigerator Thawed Food

When food is thawed in the refrigerator, bacteria can grow on its surface. It’s essential to cook these foods promptly after thawing to prevent food poisoning.

16. Canned Foods with Damaged Packaging

If the cans are swollen, dented, or show signs of damage, it may indicate bacterial contamination or other harmful substances. Avoid consuming canned foods with damaged packaging.

17. Unpasteurized Cheese

Unpasteurized soft and semi-soft cheeses, including brie, feta, and blue cheese, can contain Listeria. Pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems should avoid these cheeses.

18. Store-Bought Salad Dressings and Mayonnaise

Store-bought refrigerated salad dressings and mayonnaise can sometimes contain raw or undercooked egg products. Always check labels and ingredients to ensure safety.

19. Raw or Unpasteurized Nuts

Raw or unpasteurized nuts, especially almonds, may contain Salmonella. Choose nuts that have been pasteurized or roasted to minimize the risk of food poisoning.

20. Raw Sprouted Grains

Raw sprouted grains like wheat, barley, or corn can be contaminated with E. coli or Salmonella. Cook them thoroughly before consumption to eliminate any potential pathogens.

21. Ice Cream

Although rare, ice cream can sometimes be contaminated with harmful bacteria, such as Listeria. Check for proper storage and handling practices when purchasing ice cream.

22. Raw Oysters

Raw oysters have been linked to various foodborne illnesses, including norovirus and Vibrio infections. Consume oysters from trusted sources and ensure they are properly cooked.

23. Homemade Canned Foods

Improperly canned foods can allow bacteria such as Clostridium botulinum to thrive. If you are not familiar with the proper canning techniques, it is safer to avoid homemade canned foods.

24. Unwashed Eggs

Eggs obtained from backyard chickens can sometimes be contaminated with Salmonella. Make sure to wash eggs thoroughly before use and cook them properly.

25. Raw Milk

Raw milk may contain dangerous bacteria, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria. Opt for pasteurized milk to minimize the risk of food poisoning.

26. Homemade Sauces with Raw Eggs

Sauces like homemade Caesar dressing and hollandaise sauce often contain raw eggs. Ensure that these sauces are properly cooked to avoid any potential bacterial contamination.

27. Street Food

Street foods, especially in areas with poor sanitation, may not be prepared or stored in hygienic conditions, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Be cautious when consuming street food.

28. Unwashed Hands

While not a food item, improper hand hygiene can lead to contamination of the foods you consume. Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling or eating any food.

29. Cross-Contaminated Foods

Cross-contamination can occur when pathogens from raw or contaminated foods are transferred to other foods. Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for different food groups.

30. Food Beyond Expiration Dates

Consuming expired foods can increase the risk of food poisoning as they may contain higher levels of bacteria or toxins. Always check expiration dates and discard any expired foods.