Staying Healthy on the Road
When you travel, trying new foods can be fun and exciting. But some foods can make you feel sick, especially when you're away from home.
10 Foods to Avoid When on a Trip
1. Street Food
Street food can be tasty, but it’s not always safe. The food may not be cooked properly, or it could be handled in a way that spreads germs. If you really want to try street food, make sure it’s cooked fresh and served hot.
2. Unpeeled Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are healthy, but on trips, it’s safer to avoid eating them unless they are peeled. In some places, fresh produce might be washed in water that isn’t clean, which can make you sick.
3. Raw Seafood
Raw seafood like sushi or oysters can carry harmful bacteria or parasites. When traveling, especially in places where the water might not be clean, it’s better to avoid raw fish and seafood to reduce your risk of food poisoning.
4. Undercooked Meat
Meat that isn’t cooked all the way through can contain harmful bacteria. When ordering meat on your trip, make sure it’s cooked thoroughly, especially in places where food safety standards may not be as strict.
5. Dairy Products from Street Vendors
Milk, cheese and other dairy products sold by street vendors might not be pasteurized, meaning they haven't been treated to kill harmful bacteria. Stick to dairy products from trusted sources or buy them at stores where you know they are safe.
6. Tap Water
In many countries, tap water is not safe to drink. Even if locals drink it without problems, your body may not be used to it. Always choose bottled water to stay on the safe side, and avoid ice cubes made from tap water.
7. Buffet Food
Buffets may seem like a great way to try many dishes, but the food might sit out for long periods, allowing bacteria to grow. Hot foods should be kept hot, and cold foods should be kept cold. If the food looks like it’s been out for a while, it’s best to avoid it.
8. Unfamiliar Spicy Foods
While trying spicy food can be fun, it can upset your stomach, especially if you're not used to it. If you're on a food tour, start with small portions of spicy dishes to see how your body reacts.
9. Unfiltered Wine
Wine tasting on food and wine tours is a popular activity, but be cautious with unfiltered wine. This type of wine may contain yeast or other particles that could upset your stomach, especially if you’re not used to it. Stick to filtered wines or ask for recommendations.
10. Ice Cream from Street Vendors
On a hot day, ice cream from a street vendor might seem like a great idea. But if the vendor doesn’t store it properly, it can melt and refreeze, leading to the growth of harmful bacteria. To stay safe, buy ice cream from a trusted shop.
Be Mindful of What You Eat
When you travel, it’s important to enjoy the local food while being mindful of what you eat. Avoiding certain foods, like street food, raw seafood and unpeeled produce, can help prevent illness and keep you feeling your best on your trip. Even on food and wine tours, make sure to choose safe options and stay hydrated with bottled water. That way, you can enjoy your trip without worrying about getting sick!
Read on to learn about the best foods for older adults.