One of the most exciting aspects of traveling to a new country is having unique culinary experiences. But while this is certainly a highlight of traveling, it can also present some risks. Indeed, indulging in unfamiliar foods can sometimes lead to discomfort or illness if you're not cautious.
10 Foods to Avoid When Traveling
1. Chain Fast Food
You might be surprised to learn that chain fast food exists everywhere in the world. While it might be tempting to opt for fast food options that you already recognize, you might want to reconsider. To enjoy an authentic time in the country you’re visiting, always try to opt for local foods for a more enriching culinary experience. Plus, the local foods will be better quality than any fast food you can get your hands on.
2. Street Foods
On the subject of local foods, while this is a great way to experience a new country, take caution with street foods. While you might be tempted to try something from every street vendor you see, we recommend exercising some restraint. Street vendors in other countries don’t always abide by the same food safety rules that we have in the United States, leading to illness.
3. Room Service Meals
Although it may be tempting to stay in your room and order food that shows up right to your door, you might want to reconsider. Staying in your hotel for a meal will prevent you from being able to explore the best of what a country has to offer. To truly experience the best food, venture out to a nearby café or restaurant, even if it’s for a quick meal. The quality of the food is sure to be even better than anything you could find at your hotel.
4. Undercooked or Raw Seafood
While fresh seafood is a highlight in many coastal destinations, consuming undercooked or raw seafood can pose significant health risks, including bacterial infections and parasites. Dishes like sushi, sashimi and ceviche are popular but require careful selection of reputable establishments that prioritize freshness and proper handling. If you're unsure about the quality, it's safer to opt for fully cooked seafood options.
5. Salads with Leafy Greens
Salads may seem like a light and healthy choice, but in certain regions, the water used to wash leafy greens may be unsafe to consume. Contaminated water can carry harmful bacteria, leading to stomach issues or infections. If you’re in a place where you’re unsure of the water quality, avoid leafy greens like lettuce and spinach.
6. Bushmeat
Bushmeat–or local wild game–can pose serious health risks. Bushmeat are generally animals not typically eaten in the United States, such as bats, monkeys or rodents. This can present a source of animal-to-human spread of diseases, such as Ebola, which can make you very sick. It’s best to stick to ordering meat that you recognize and have eaten before so as to avoid feeling ill on your trip.
7. Dishes with Raw Eggs
Egg-based dishes like mayo, hollandaise sauce or egg-based desserts can contain raw or undercooked eggs, which can lead to salmonella poisoning. Food safety regulations are not always the same in other countries as they are in the United States, which increases the risk of foodborne illnesses. Avoid raw or runny eggs and dishes that contain them unless you are confident about the restaurant’s hygiene practices.
8. Overcooked Steaks
Many countries prefer to serve their steaks cooked rare or in some cases, raw like beef tartare. If you’re going to order a steak but don’t want it bloody, be aware that asking for it this way might result in an overly tough piece of meat. Plus, ordering a steak well done will be a dead giveaway that you’re a tourist.
9. Buffet-Style Foods
Buffets can be a convenient way to sample a variety of dishes, but they often involve food sitting out for extended periods, increasing the risk of bacterial growth. The temperature control in buffets may not always be adequate, making perishable items unsafe to consume. In addition, buffets will not present you with the most authentic style of cuisine, resulting in a sort of quantity over a quality meal that might not be what you’re looking for.
10. Raw Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are generally healthy, but consuming them raw in unfamiliar places can lead to digestive issues if they have been washed with contaminated water or handled improperly. To reduce the risk, opt for fruits that can be peeled, like bananas or oranges, and avoid salads or uncooked vegetables unless you're confident about the cleanliness of the establishment.
Learn about some cruise foods you should stay away from.