Summer is a season of fun, outdoor activities, and delicious foods. It’s the time when we all love to indulge in refreshing drinks, appetizing dishes, and sweet treats. However, some summer foods can be dangerous for our health if not consumed carefully.

In this article, we’ll talk about the top 5 summer foods that can be harmful and how to stay safe while enjoying them.

1. Raw shellfish

Raw shellfish, such as oysters, clams, and mussels, can carry harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause food poisoning. These creatures filter seawater to feed, which means they can accumulate harmful toxins and microorganisms from the water.

Eating raw shellfish can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. If you love shellfish, make sure you buy them from a reputable supplier, cook them thoroughly, and consume them immediately.

2. Potato salad and coleslaw

Summertime is the season of outdoor barbecues, picnics, and parties. A common dish at these events is potato salad and coleslaw. However, both these salads can be dangerous if they are left out in the heat for too long.

These dishes contain mayonnaise, which is a perishable item and can quickly spoil if not refrigerated. Bacteria can grow in the salad and cause food poisoning, especially if consumed in warm weather. If you’re serving these salads, keep them cold in a cooler or refrigerator until serving time. Also, don’t let the salads sit out for more than two hours.

3. Ice cream and frozen treats

Who doesn’t love ice cream and frozen treats on a hot summer day? However, these desserts can be harmful to our health if they contain contaminated milk or cream.

Bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes can thrive in dairy products, especially if they are not stored or handled properly. This bacteria can cause severe illnesses, especially in pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.

If you’re buying ice cream or frozen treats, make sure they come from a reputable supplier, and they are properly stored at the right temperature.

4. Burgers and hot dogs

Summer is the season of grilling, and burgers and hot dogs are the classic summer foods. However, if not cooked properly, they can cause food poisoning. Ground beef and poultry can contain harmful bacteria such as E.

coli and Salmonella, which can cause severe illnesses and even death. Make sure you cook your burgers and hot dogs thoroughly, so they reach a temperature of at least 160°F. Also, avoid cross-contamination by using separate plates and utensils for raw and cooked meat.

5. Fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are healthy, refreshing, and full of nutrients. However, they can also be contaminated with harmful bacteria and pesticides.

During summer, fruits and vegetables are in abundance, and it’s essential to wash them properly before consuming. Wash them with clean running water, and scrub them gently with a brush. Also, try to buy organic fruits and vegetables, which are free from harmful pesticides.

Summer is the time to enjoy delicious foods and drinks, but it’s also important to be mindful of what we eat and drink. By following these tips, you can stay safe and healthy while indulging in your summertime favorites.