Just One Bite Can Be Harmful: The Hidden Dangers of Foodborne Parasites

Traveling? Take Extra Precautions

When traveling to areas with poor sanitation:

• Drink only bottled or boiled water
• Avoid ice cubes unless made from purified water
• Skip salads or raw produce unless you washed it yourself
• Avoid street food unless it’s cooked in front of you and served hot

Optional Swaps for Safer Eating

• Cooked oysters instead of raw
• Seared or fully cooked sushi rolls instead of sashimi
• Pasteurized cheeses instead of unpasteurized brie or feta
• Homegrown or organic produce washed and prepped safely

You don’t have to give up your favorite foods—just choose smarter, safer alternatives.

Don’t Risk Your Health for One Bite

Parasites may be out of sight, but they’re not harmless. Many people don’t realize they’ve been infected until symptoms become severe. And once inside the body, some parasites can linger, causing long-term damage.

But this isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness. With smart habits and just a little extra care, you can protect yourself and your family from unnecessary health risks.

So the next time you’re tempted to take a bite of that undercooked steak or skip washing that apple, remember:

One bite really can be harmful. Make it a safe one.