Dining out is a great way to socialize, celebrate, and enjoy a meal with friends and family. However, dining out comes with a risk of foodborne illnesses.

Foodborne illnesses are infections caused by consuming contaminated food, which can cause food poisoning, gastrointestinal problems, and even death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 48 million people get sick from foodborne illnesses each year in the United States.

Fortunately, there are several ways you can protect yourself from foodborne illnesses while dining out. Here are 10 ways to do so.

1. Choose a Clean Restaurant

The cleanliness of a restaurant is one of the most important factors in preventing foodborne illnesses. Before choosing a restaurant, do some research and check their sanitation rating.

Many states require restaurants to display their sanitation rating, which reflects how well they comply with food safety regulations. Look for a restaurant with a rating of 90 or higher.

2. Watch Out for Buffets

Buffets may offer a wide variety of food options, but they also present a higher risk of foodborne illnesses. Food may be left out for extended periods, allowing bacteria to grow, or may not be cooked or stored at the right temperature.

If you do choose to eat at a buffet, make sure the hot foods are hot and the cold foods are cold. Also, avoid touching the serving utensils to avoid cross-contamination.

3. Check the Menu

When choosing a restaurant, check the menu for options that may pose a higher risk of foodborne illnesses such as raw or undercooked meat, eggs, and seafood.

These types of foods may contain harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause foodborne illnesses. If you must have raw or undercooked meat, make sure it is cooked to the appropriate temperature to kill any harmful bacteria.

4. Wash Your Hands

Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of microorganisms that cause foodborne illnesses. Before eating, make sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

Also, wash your hands after using the restroom, touching your face or hair, and handling money.

5. Use a Hand Sanitizer

In addition to washing your hands, you can also use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to kill any harmful bacteria and viruses. Keep a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your purse or pocket to use before and after your meal.

6. Avoid Cross-Contamination

Cross-contamination occurs when harmful bacteria from one food item is transferred to another. It can happen when using the same cutting board, knife, or utensil for different food items.

To avoid cross-contamination, make sure to use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other foods. Also, make sure to clean any utensils and surfaces that come into contact with raw meat before using them for other foods.

7. Check the Temperature

Food that is not cooked or stored at the correct temperature can harbor harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. Make sure to check the temperature of your food before eating.

Food that should be hot, such as soups and stews, should be steaming hot. Food that should be cold, such as salads and sandwiches, should be kept chilled at 40°F or below.

8. Watch Out for Reheated Foods

Reheating foods can create hot spots where bacteria can survive and grow. If you must eat reheated food, make sure it is heated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to kill any harmful bacteria.

9. Say No to Garnishes

While garnishes may add a decorative touch to your plate, they may also harbor harmful bacteria. Say no to garnishes such as parsley, onion rings, and lemon wedges.

10. Trust Your Gut

If something doesn’t look, smell, or taste right, don’t eat it. Trust your gut and speak up if you have any concerns about the food or the restaurant.

Conclusion

Dining out can be enjoyable and safe if you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from foodborne illnesses.

Remember to choose a clean restaurant, watch out for buffets, check the menu, wash your hands, use a hand sanitizer, avoid cross-contamination, check the temperature, watch out for reheated foods, say no to garnishes, and trust your gut.