Whenever I watch those Food Network shows following people on their exotic food eating adventures I often wonder if they ever sample dishes that have made them sick. In a previous blog I shared with you what happened to my brother the last time he got thirsty in Bali. And his story is not unique. Sampling local cuisine from the far ends of the planet is one of the most satisfying aspects of foreign travel. But while the delicious scents may draw you in and your palate might enjoy the culinary masterpieces, your stomach may not always be happy with your choices.
Before I provide tips on what not to eat and drink while you explore the four corners of the world I should note that American food isn’t necessarily superior or safer than foods in foreign countries; it’s often that our digestive systems are accustomed to the type of food preparation employed in the United States.
The best way to insure that you are up to date on the latest health news in the country you plan to visit is to monitor the websites of the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), both of which keep track of any possible threats to the local food supply.
In addition, take a look at this list of how you can eat safely no matter where in the world you travel:
1. Watch what you drink when you are traveling abroad—that includes ice.
2. Be careful when eating raw foods. Cooked foods are less likely to acquire airborne contaminants, while raw foods such as salads and unpeeled fruits and vegetables often lead to tummy troubles.
3. Hot foods should be served HOT. Make sure you order your meat “well done” or at least “medium well,” and eat it while it is hot. It you are served a lukewarm piece of meat, send it back to the kitchen. Also, be careful of runny eggs and sandwiches with lots of raw vegetables.
4. Steer clear of condiments such as mayonnaise, ketchup and salad dressings if they are not served in sealed packages.
5. Avoid cold meat platters and cheese trays at buffets. You don’t know how long they have been sitting out and room temperature cheeses and meats create a breeding ground for bacteria.
6. Dishes that include seafood are notorious for causing intestinal problems. If you are ordering a fish dish choose one that features a smaller fish (they tend to be safer). Also, shellfish (such as clams, mussels and oysters) are usually best avoided.
7. Read labels. Especially when it comes to dairy products. You want to avoid unpasteurized dairy products, including cheese and yogurt. When in doubt check the labels for evidence of pasteurization.
8. Examine your coffee before you drink it. It’s best to take your hot drinks black, without potentially contaminated milk.
Other tips: Wash your hands before you eat. And if you have food allergies or are on a special diet (low sugar, etc.), it’s especially important that you have a language guidebook to help you translate foreign-language menus.
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