There are some foods that you should never eat raw. This article lists 10 of them, highlighting items that could be harmful or toxic without proper cooking. While raw diets are popular for their health benefits, it’s important to know which foods to skip.
Wild Mushrooms
Foraging for wild mushrooms can be like playing dietary roulette. Many wild mushrooms are toxic and can cause severe illness or worse when eaten raw. Always have wild mushrooms checked by an expert and cook them properly.
Potatoes
Raw potatoes? Think again! They contain solanine, a toxin that can cause nausea, headaches, and neurological problems. Cooking them reduces the toxin to safe levels, so it’s best to keep them off the raw snack list.
Lima Beans
Lima beans are like that friend who needs a bit of warming up. Raw, they contain linamarin, which can turn into cyanide in your body. A good boil makes them perfectly safe and friendly!
Cassava/Yuca
Cassava, also known as yuca, is the ultimate ‘don’t eat me raw’ food. It contains cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when eaten raw. Cooking it thoroughly neutralizes the toxins.
Eggplant
Raw eggplant can be a bitter pill to swallow, literally. It contains solanine, which, in large amounts, can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Cooking it softens the texture and mellows the bitterness.
Olives
Eating raw olives straight from the tree can be an unpalatably bitter experience. They contain oleuropein, which is extremely bitter and needs to be cured out before they become the delicious morsels we love.
Red Kidney Beans
Raw red kidney beans are the ultimate party poopers, containing lectins that can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. A proper boil for at least 10 minutes transforms them into a safe, hearty addition to any meal.
Chicken
Raw chicken is a big no-no, harboring Salmonella and Campylobacter bacteria. Always cook it to the safe internal temperature to keep your meals delicious and food poisoning-free.
Hot Dogs
Even though hot dogs are pre-cooked, eating them raw is not recommended due to the risk of listeriosis and other bacterial infections. A quick grill or boil ensures they’re not just safe, but also way more appetizing.
Flour
Raw flour isn’t just a recipe for culinary disaster; it’s a health hazard. It can harbor E. coli and other nasty bacteria. Always cook your dishes containing flour to avoid a not-so-sweet surprise.
10 Best Frozen Veggies To Keep In Your Freezer At All Times For Easy Meals
Keeping the right frozen veggies on hand is like having a secret weapon for easy meal prep. This list is a carefully selected lineup of the best frozen vegetables that promise to turn your everyday cooking into something effortlessly delicious. From the sweet char of fire roasted corn to the versatile goodness of chopped spinach, these freezer staples ensure you’re always ready to whip up something tasty.
See them here: 10 Best Frozen Veggies To Keep In Your Freezer At All Times For Easy Meals
The Top 10 Mercury-Heavy Fish and What to Have Instead
Navigating the world of seafood can sometimes feel like sailing through murky waters, especially when it comes to mercury content. While fish is a fantastic source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, certain types pack a punch with high levels of mercury, posing health risks. We’re shining a light on those fish and offering up a net-full of safer alternatives so you can make informed choices to enjoy seafood that’s not only tasty but also good for your health.
See them here: The Top 10 Mercury-Heavy Fish and What to Have Instead
The Best Fast Food Sides That Go Beyond Fries
Let’s face it, when we think fast food, it’s the burgers and fries that usually steal the show. But what about the unsung heroes of the menu, those side dishes that can turn a quick meal into something special? From the crispy, golden perfection of onion rings to the fluffy, buttery bliss of biscuits, there’s a whole world of flavor waiting to be explored. We’re diving into some of the most delicious and underrated fast food sides out there.
See Them Here: The Best Fast Food Sides That Go Beyond Fries
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Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.
