When dining out, most people rely on restaurants to prepare and serve safe and delicious food. However, foodborne illnesses can still occur if proper precautions are not taken.

In this article, we will discuss ways to protect yourself from foodborne illnesses when eating at restaurants. By being food smart and adopting some simple practices, you can greatly minimize the risk of getting sick from contaminated food.

Choose reputable restaurants

The first step towards ensuring food safety is selecting reputable restaurants. Look for places that have a good reputation for cleanliness and hygiene.

Check for online reviews and ratings from previous customers to gather information about the restaurant’s overall quality and safety standards. It’s also a good idea to choose establishments that have regular health inspections and display their certificates.

Inspect the restaurant

Upon arrival, take a moment to observe the restaurant’s general cleanliness. Look out for any signs of poor hygiene, such as dirty tables, unclean restrooms, or employees not following proper hygiene practices.

If you notice any red flags, it might be best to choose another restaurant to dine in.

Check the food handling practices

One of the crucial aspects of food safety is how the restaurant handles its ingredients and food preparation.

Find out if the establishment follows safe food handling practices, such as wearing gloves, using separate cutting boards for raw and cooked ingredients, and sanitizing kitchen tools regularly. It’s essential to ensure that the restaurant takes food safety seriously.

Be cautious with raw foods

Raw foods, especially undercooked meats, seafood, and eggs, can contain harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. It’s important to be cautious when consuming raw or undercooked food items.

Make sure that these items are sourced from reputable suppliers and are handled and cooked under strict sanitary conditions. If you are unsure about the safety of any particular dish, it’s best to avoid it.

Monitor food temperatures

Keep in mind that certain foods must be stored and served at specific temperatures to prevent bacterial growth. Cold foods like salads, raw seafood, and desserts should be kept refrigerated until they are ready to be served.

Hot foods, such as soups and cooked meats, should be served piping hot. If you notice that the food you are served is not at the appropriate temperature, politely request a fresh dish.

Practice proper hand hygiene

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent foodborne illnesses is through proper hand hygiene. Pay attention to whether the restaurant staff, especially the servers and chefs, practice proper handwashing techniques.

They should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling food or after using the restroom. If this basic hygiene practice is neglected, it raises concerns about other food safety measures as well.

Observe food storage practices

Restaurants should have proper storage arrangements to ensure that perishable food items are stored at safe temperatures. Raw meats should be stored separately from other food items to avoid cross-contamination.

Refrigerators and freezers must be clean and maintained regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Be observant and if you notice any improper food storage practices, it’s a good idea to inform the staff or consider dining elsewhere.

Ask about food sourcing

Knowing where the food comes from is essential for food safety. Ask the restaurant staff about the origin of their ingredients, especially when it comes to fish, meat, and produce.

Reputable establishments will be transparent about their sourcing practices and ensure that their food suppliers meet strict safety and quality standards. If your queries about food sourcing are met with evasiveness or uncertainty, it’s a warning sign.

Choose foods with caution

Some food items are more prone to causing foodborne illnesses than others. Certain foods, like raw sprouts, unpasteurized dairy products, and raw oysters, have a higher risk of contamination.

If you have a weakened immune system, are pregnant, or dining with young children, it’s advisable to avoid these high-risk food items altogether to minimize the chances of falling ill.

Trust your instincts

Ultimately, trust your instincts when it comes to dining out. If something feels off or you have concerns about the restaurant’s food safety practices, it’s better to err on the side of caution and choose another establishment.

Your health should never be compromised, and there are plenty of reputable restaurants that prioritize food safety.

Conclusion

While it’s impossible to guarantee 100% protection from foodborne illnesses, by following these guidelines and being food smart, you can significantly reduce the risk.

Choose reputable restaurants, observe food handling practices, monitor food temperatures, and practice good personal hygiene. It’s crucial to be aware of these factors and take necessary precautions to protect yourself when dining out. Remember, staying informed and being cautious are the best ways to enjoy a safe and delicious meal at any restaurant.