7 Most Common Foods That Can Cause Food Poisoning (And How to Stay Safe)

Food poisoning is no joke. One bad meal can leave you dealing with nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea for days. In severe problem, it can cause hospitalization.

But here’s the thing: Most food poisoning cases come from everyday foods you eat all the time. The good news? You can drastically lower your risk by knowing which foods are risky and how to handle them properly.

In this guide, you’ll discover the 7 most common foods that cause food poisoning—and exactly what you need to do to stay safe.

Let’s dive in.

1. Raw or Undercooked Poultry

Chicken and turkey are top sources of Salmonella and Campylobacter, two bacteria that can cause severe food poisoning. If you eat undercooked poultry or let raw juices contaminate other foods, you’re at risk.

How to Stay Safe:

• Cook it thoroughly: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
• Avoid washing raw poultry: This spreads bacteria to sinks and countertops.
  Use separate cutting boards: Never chop veggies on the same board used for raw chicken.

2. Raw or Undercooked Eggs

Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrition, but they can also carry Salmonella, which causes food poisoning. If eggs aren’t cooked properly, the bacteria can survive and make you sick.

How to Stay Safe:

• Take your time to Cook the eggs until the yolk and white are firm completely.
• Avoid foods with raw eggs (like homemade mayonnaise or cookie dough).
• Store eggs in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or lower.

3. Raw or Undercooked Seafood

Sushi lovers, take note! Raw fish and shellfish (like oysters and clams) can carry harmful bacteria and viruses, including Vibrio, Salmonella, and norovirus.

How to Stay Safe:

• Buy seafood from trusted sources.
  Cook shellfish thoroughly (boil, steam, or fry at 145°F (63°C)).
• If eating raw seafood, choose sushi-grade fish handled safely.

4. Unpasteurized Dairy Products

Raw milk, cheese, and yogurt can carry Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella, which are especially dangerous for pregnant women, young children, and the elderly.

How to Stay Safe:

• Choose pasteurized dairy products.
• Store dairy in the fridge at 40°F (4°C) or lower.
• Check expiration dates and don’t consume expired dairy.

5. Raw or Contaminated Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh produce can carry bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, especially if it’s contaminated by dirty water or improper handling.

How to Stay Safe:

• Take your time to Wash all the fruits and veggies under running water, even if you peel the fruit or not.
• Use a clean brush for scrubbing firm produce like potatoes and melons.
• Avoid pre-cut produce that looks slimy or has an odd smell.

4.  Deli Meats and Hot Dogs

Cold cuts, hot dogs, and pre-cooked meats can be contaminated with Listeria, a bacteria that can grow even in the fridge.

How to Stay Safe:

• Heat deli meats and hot dogs to 165°F (75°C) before eating.
• Store properly—keep them in the fridge and consume within a few days.
• Wash hands and surfaces after handling raw or packaged meats.

7. Cooked Rice and Leftovers

This one surprises a lot of people. Cooked rice can grow a bacteria called Bacillus cereus, which produces toxins that cause food poisoning. Leaving rice or other leftovers at room temperature for too long is a major risk.

How to Stay Safe:

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours (or 1 hour if it’s hot outside).
• Reheat food to at least 165°F (75°C) before eating.
• Never eat rice that’s been sitting out overnight.

Final Thoughts

By following these simple food safety tips, you can enjoy your meals without worrying about getting sick.

Stay safe, eat smart, and keep your kitchen bacteria-free!