You might think that when you’re out at Restaurants, you can trust that the food is high quality. Unfortunately, this is only sometimes the case – as any seasoned diner knows all too well. From dishes cooked with less than premium ingredients and questionable preparation methods to foods that are downright dangerous for your health, there are certain menu items it’s best to avoid while eating out if you want to keep yourself safe from potential illness or other side effects. This article will look at some common offenders so that next time you go out for dinner, you know exactly what not to order!
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Food You Should Avoid In Restaurants
Unpasteurized Juices And Ciders
Unpasteurized juices and ciders are popular food items found in restaurants, but it is essential to avoid these beverages as they can be a source of serious illnesses. These drinks are not exposed to pasteurization, which kills any microbes that could make you sick. Without this step, the juice or cider is vulnerable to bacterial contamination such as Salmonella, E. coli, and listeria – all of which can result in serious issues ranging from minor discomfort to significant health complications.
Furthermore, many restaurants offer unpasteurized juices falsely labeled as “fresh”; consumers should ensure that if they buy juice or cider at a restaurant, verify it has been pasteurized like other commercially-sold foods. Ultimately, unpasteurized juices and ciders might taste good. Still, the risk of consuming bacteria-laden products outweighs any enjoyment gained from them – it’s best to play it safe and opt for pasteurized alternatives when dining out.
Rare Or Undercooked Meats
Dining at a restaurant can be enjoyable, but it’s important to remember that neglecting food safety practices there can put you at risk for numerous food-borne illnesses. Bacteria found in rare and undercooked meats are far less likely to have been killed by cooking heat than in fully cooked meats. This is why avoiding ordering rare or undercooked meats when dining out is best.
As such, they can more easily make you ill if ingested. This is why restaurant kitchens must follow strict health codes designed to reduce the risk of cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods – and if they don’t, you should consider going elsewhere! Taking simple precautions like avoiding rare or undercooked meat when dining out is a small but essential step towards staying safe and healthy – whether it’s enjoying breakfast, brunch, or dinner with friends.
Soft Cheeses
Eating soft cheeses in a restaurant should be avoided whenever possible due to the potential food safety risks. Soft cheese typically has a higher moisture content that can provide fertile ground for bacteria to grow, increasing the possibility of contracting food-borne illnesses. Soft cheeses’ shelf life is very short compared to other types and can quickly become unsafe during transport or warm temperatures.
Restaurants may keep their soft cheeses refrigerated, but even then, there is no certainty that it has adequately stayed preserved until it reaches your plate. Additionally, many people need to remember that unpasteurized and unprocessed soft cheeses are even more prone to contamination and spoilage than pre-packaged varieties, making it best to steer clear of these types when dining out.
Raw Sprouts
Eating raw sprouts in restaurants can have dangerous consequences. They often come into contact with unsanitary surfaces since restaurant kitchens are less closely monitored than home kitchens. Sprouts may be subject to cross-contamination or other handling risks, making them potentially unsafe to eat.
Moreover, restaurants’ moist, warm environment makes them a prime breeding ground for bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. These bacteria can cause severe food poisoning symptoms such as stomach cramps, diarrhea, and nausea – all of which you would want to avoid! Therefore, it’s best to avoid raw sprouts when dining out and stick with cooked options instead.
Processed Meats And Sausages
Dining out can be a tasty treat, but you should think twice before ordering that processed meat or sausage dish. Processed meats are typically loaded with salt, nitrates, and other preservatives to extend shelf life, which increases your sodium intake and can raise your blood pressure. Overeating processed meat and sausages has been associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
When you ingest artificial chemicals like those found in processed meats, your internal systems may struggle to process them. All these components add up to an unhealthy choice, so it’s best to opt for something fresher when you go out!
Fried Foods
Just because it tastes good doesn’t mean it’s good for your well-being! Fried foods may be tasty, but there are better options in restaurants. Eating fried foods regularly can lead to high cholesterol and an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.
As an alternative to deep-fried meals, try menu items that are grilled, roasted, or baked instead – not only will these alternatives help reduce inflammation, but they often contain higher levels of nutrients and fewer unhealthy fats. Before ordering your next meal at a restaurant, consider the health benefits of choosing a healthy meal rather than one fried. It may require sacrificing flavor for the sake of your long-term physical health.
Refrigerated Seafood
When dining out, it’s essential to exercise caution regarding seafood dishes. Refrigerated seafood can often taste quite different from if the fish was caught fresh that day. Many restaurants keep seafood in the refrigerator for days or weeks before they sell it, resulting in a noticeable decline in flavor.
Seafood may also spoil quickly if not refrigerated properly, making them unsafe to consume and loaded with bacteria that can make you ill. As such, you should always avoid ordering refrigerated seafood at restaurants and opt for dishes made with freshly caught fish—they’re sure to taste much better and be much safer for your health!
High-Sugar Desserts
High-sugar desserts in restaurants can seem like the perfect way to end a meal, but these treats are only sometimes the best choice. Overeating sugar can have serious consequences, including an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, most sugary desserts may be high in calories, so consuming them too often can lead to weight gain.
Enjoying desserts with less sugar is a healthier option and can still give you the satisfying sweetness you crave. They may not be as indulgent as classic restaurant desserts, but they are much better for your health! For example, try opting for fresh fruit or yogurt topped with dark chocolate instead of cake or ice cream.
Best Foods To Order In Restaurants
If you want to eat healthy when dining out, choose dishes that are high in protein, contain lots of fresh vegetables, and use unprocessed and whole ingredients. Protein-rich foods such as lean meats and fish can help to keep you full longer and provide essential nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, adding a variety of vegetables to your meal can increase your fiber intake and provide you with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Finally, by choosing dishes made with unprocessed ingredients like whole grains, legumes, and nuts, you can ensure that your food is as natural and nutritious as possible. Eating healthy at restaurants may require some extra thought, but enjoying an enjoyable meal that benefits your health is well worth the effort.
Make Sure To Avoid These Foods In Restaurants!
Eating out doesn’t have to mean sacrificing nutrition—all it takes is mindful decision-making when it comes time to order! The next time you eat, avoid unhealthy items like soft cheeses, fried foods, and high-sugar desserts. By opting for healthier options like grilled proteins, fresh vegetables, and whole grain dishes, you can ensure you’re eating a nutritious meal that is good for your physical health.