Raw foods have been becoming increasingly popular due to health benefits such as boosting immune systems, improving digestion, and supporting weight loss.

While many raw foods are healthy, some should never be consumed raw due to the risk of foodborne illnesses. Here are ten foods that you should never eat raw for your safety.

1. Meat

Raw or undercooked meat can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. These bacteria can cause food poisoning, which can lead to symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Meat should always be cooked to the appropriate internal temperature to kill any harmful bacteria.

2. Eggs

Raw or undercooked eggs can contain the bacteria Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning. It’s important to cook eggs until both the white and yolk are firm to kill any bacteria that may be present.

3. Fish

Raw fish can contain parasites, which can cause food poisoning. Some fish, such as tuna and swordfish, can also contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to your health if consumed in large quantities.

It’s best to cook fish to eliminate the risk of parasites and reduce the levels of mercury.

4. Poultry

Raw poultry can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter. Poultry should always be cooked to the appropriate internal temperature to kill any harmful bacteria.

5. Potatoes

Raw potatoes contain a toxin called solanine, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if consumed in large quantities. It’s best to cook potatoes to eliminate any risk of consuming too much solanine.

6. Kidney Beans

Raw kidney beans contain a toxin called phytohaemagglutinin, which can cause food poisoning. It’s important to soak and cook kidney beans thoroughly to reduce the levels of this toxin.

7. Rhubarb

Rhubarb leaves contain oxalates, which can be toxic and cause kidney damage if consumed in large quantities. It’s best to only eat the stalks of rhubarb, which are safe to consume.

8. Mushrooms

Some varieties of mushrooms can be toxic if consumed raw. It’s best to cook mushrooms thoroughly to eliminate any potential toxins.

9. Sprouts

Raw sprouts, such as alfalfa and bean sprouts, can be a breeding ground for bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. It’s best to cook sprouts thoroughly to eliminate any harmful bacteria.

10. Unpasteurized Dairy

Raw milk and other unpasteurized dairy products can contain harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter and E. coli. These bacteria can cause food poisoning, which can lead to symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting.

It’s best to consume only pasteurized dairy products to eliminate any risk of foodborne illnesses.