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Cook Smart
- Pork and fish should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
- Beef and ground meats should reach 160°F (71°C)
- Always cook fish until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily
Clean Everything Thoroughly
- Wash all fruits and vegetables under running water before cutting, peeling, or eating
- Scrub with a vegetable brush if needed
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling food and after touching raw meats
Avoid Raw Dairy and Uncooked Delicacies
- Choose pasteurized milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Avoid dishes made with raw milk or unverified cheese
- If you love sushi, try cooked or frozen-safe options
Freezing and Storing: A Line of Defense You May Be Overlooking
Freeze Raw Fish Before Consumption
If you plan to eat raw or lightly cooked fish, freeze it at −4°F (−20°C) for at least 24 hours to kill any parasites. Sushi-grade fish should already meet these standards, but always verify with your supplier.
Store Meats Properly
- Separate raw meats from ready-to-eat foods in the fridge
- Use airtight containers to prevent cross-contamination
Clean Surfaces and Tools
- Sanitize countertops, cutting boards, and knives that have come into contact with raw meat
- Replace old sponges and dish towels regularly—they’re breeding grounds for bacteria and 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.
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