Street Food Safety Tips for Travelers
By Lana Bandoim
When you are traveling, it can be hard to avoid the tempting offers from street vendors. The food can smell delicious, and the best vendors tend to have long lines of eager customers. However, eating street food can be dangerous while you travel. Some vendors do not consider hygiene and safety as they prepare the food. Pay attention to these tips to avoid stomach problems, food poisoning and trips to the local hospitals.
Avoid Raw Food
Raw and unwashed food can be the most dangerous thing to buy from street vendors. Avoid all raw products and focus on cooked food. Do not take the risk of eating undercooked food because it can lead to multiple problems and ruin the vacation.
Watch the Food Preparation
If it is possible, watch how the food is prepared. Many street vendors cook the food in front of their customers, so this should not be difficult. Pay attention to the preparation process and watch it carefully. Avoid street vendors who do not use proper hygiene or safety tips while making the food.
Drink Bottled Water or Canned Drinks
Some street vendors sell fresh juices and smoothies, but these may not be safe to drink. In some countries, the tap water can be dangerous for travelers, and most street vendors use tap water to make their drinks. The water can be contaminated with parasites, bacteria and viruses. In addition, ice cubes are usually made from tap water, so they may not be safe. Consider drinking bottled water and canned products to stay safe.
Avoid Bushmeat
Bushmeat is meat that comes from wild animals. It is also called game meat. It is better to avoid bushmeat because some animals can carry diseases. For example, monkeys can be infected with HIV and Ebola. Bats may also be infected with Ebola. In addition, some bushmeat is hunted illegally and puts endangered animals at risk of extinction.
Be Careful With Salads
Salads seem like a healthy choice while traveling, but raw fruit and vegetables can be dangerous. You cannot tell if they are washed, and washing them in tap water can be a problem. Only eat fruit and vegetables that you can wash and peel safely.
It can be difficult to walk past street vendors who sell food without buying something. If temptation is too much to handle, then consider these food safety tips and proceed with caution. You do not want food poisoning to ruin a fun vacation.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cary, N.C.
