Salmonella bacteria can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever in people who eat food contaminated with it. Salmonella can be passed on from animals and animal products. It is also found in fruits and vegetables. Raw animal products should be well cooked and produce should be washed thoroughly before consuming it to avoid food poisoning. It is very easily spread from people, products and other foods, so it is important that food handlers practice cleanliness when preparing meals.
Meat, Poultry and Seafood
Do not eat undercooked meat or poultry, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns. Raw seafood can also carry the salmonella bacteria. Any raw food of animal origin can pose a danger. You must cook or boil meat and poultry thoroughly in order to kill the salmonella bacteria. This includes minced meat. It is important that meat, poultry and fish be stored in the refrigerator and never left out for long periods of time. Make sure you use different cutting boards and utensils when preparing each of these foods. The same is true when preparing meat along with vegetables and other foods. All kitchen utensils should be properly washed with soap and water before use on another type of food to prevent bacteria from being exchanged. You should always wash your hands with soap and water after handling such foods or using the bathroom, the CDC advises. Poultry and meat, especially hamburgers, should be well cooked. Do not eat hamburger that is pink in the middle.
Dairy Products and Eggs
Do not consume raw or unpasteurized dairy products. Raw dairy products can make people sick. It is necessary to practice safe food handing when preparing these and other animal products. Never eat undercooked eggs. Salmonella bacteria exist on the shell of the egg. For safe results, boil the eggs in water for five seconds before use. Never crack a raw egg on a bowl containing other foods. This prevents the spreading of bacteria to those foods. Crack the egg with a knife or fork instead. Because raw eggs can spread the bacteria, you must be careful when raw eggs are used in preparation of foods, the CDC warns. Raw eggs could be part of the ingredients in homemade salad dressings, ice cream or mayonnaise. Also be careful of cookie dough and frosting.
Fruits and Vegetables
Salmonella has been linked to a variety of fruits and vegetables, from tomatoes and lettuce to peanuts and peppers. Wash all produce thoroughly before using. Keep these foods away from uncooked meats during food preparation. Cross-contamination of foods is another way to spread salmonella. Fruits and vegetables can be contaminated by raw meat and poultry, the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service explains. These foods should be handled separately during preparation.
