. Choose pasteurized dairy products. Check labels to ensure the product is pasteurized.
Provide clean water.
Drink water from reliable sources, especially when traveling. If local quality is questionable, use bottled or filtered water. Boil water for at least 1 minute to kill parasites and other pathogens.
Freezing Fish
If you’re eating raw or lightly processed fish, freeze it for at least 24 hours before eating it to eliminate parasites like anisakis. Freezing is an effective method of parasite control, especially for fish intended for sushi.
Wash your hands and surfaces
Always wash your hands with soap and water before cooking and after handling raw meat or seafood. Clean and disinfect all surfaces and utensils that have come into contact with raw food to prevent cross-contamination.
Production Storage
Store unwashed fruits and vegetables in a cool, dry place. After washing, refrigerate them to extend their shelf life. Wash them immediately before eating, not before storing.
Risk-reducing options
Heat-treated or pasteurized alternatives
If you enjoy sushi, oysters, or other raw foods, opt for cooked alternatives to minimize your risks. Many restaurants offer safe, cooked sushi or grilled bivalves.
Growing your own produce
Growing your own fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of external contamination. Even then, wash them thoroughly before eating. Regularly inspect your garden for possible sources of contamination that could compromise food safety.