Most people know that fresh foods are healthier for you than processed foods. But did you know that fresh foods can also be more dangerous?
According to a new study fresh foods are actually more likely to cause foodborne illness than processed foods. The study which was published in the Journal of Food Protection analyzed data from over 1600 foodborne illness outbreaks in the United States between 1998 and 2008.
The researchers found that fresh foods were the source of nearly two-thirds of all foodborne illnesses. In contrast processed foods were the source of less than a third of foodborne illnesses.
One of the reasons why fresh foods are more likely to cause foodborne illness is because they are often not cooked before they are eaten. This means that any bacteria or viruses that are present on the food can be passed on to the person eating it.
Processed foods are typically cooked before they are consumed which kills any harmful bacteria or viruses.
Another reason why fresh foods are more likely to cause foodborne illness is because they are often handled more during production and distribution. This increases the chance that the food will come into contact with contaminants that can cause illness.
So why are fresh foods still considered healthier than processed foods?
One of the main reasons is that fresh foods contain more vitamins and minerals than processed foods. Processing can often strip away some of the nutrients in food.
Another reason is that fresh foods are generally less processed and contain fewer additives than processed foods. Many processed foods contain additives that can be harmful to your health.
So while fresh foods may be more likely to cause foodborne illness they are still generally considered healthier for you than processed foods. Just be sure to wash your hands and cook your food properly to reduce the risk of becoming sick.
1.
What is the difference between fresh and frozen seafood?
Answer: Fresh seafood is seafood that has been caught and then packaged for sale within a short period of time.
Frozen seafood is seafood that has been caught and then frozen for storage and sale at a later time.
2.
Which type of seafood is typically more expensive?
Answer: Fresh seafood is typically more expensive than frozen seafood.
This is because it is more perishable and therefore has a shorter shelf life.
3.
What are the benefits of eating fresh seafood?
Answer: Some benefits of eating fresh seafood include that it is less processed and therefore retains more of its nutrients.
Additionally fresh seafood has a more intense flavor than frozen seafood.
4.
What are the risks of eating fresh seafood?
Answer: Some risks of eating fresh seafood include that it may contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
Additionally fresh seafood may not be properly cooked which can also lead to food poisoning.
5.
How can I tell if fresh seafood is safe to eat?
Answer: You can tell if fresh seafood is safe to eat by checking the expiration date on the package.
Additionally you should make sure that the seafood has been properly refrigerated and that it does not have a foul odor.
6.
How should I store fresh seafood?
Answer: You should store fresh seafood in the refrigerator.
If you plan to eat it within a few days you can store it in the freezer.
However if you plan to eat it within a week you should cook it and then store it in the freezer.
7.
How long does fresh seafood last?
Answer: Fresh seafood typically lasts for two to three days in the refrigerator.
If it is properly stored in the freezer it can last for up to six months.
8.
What is the best way to cook fresh seafood?
Answer: The best way to cook fresh seafood is to grilled baked or sautéed.
9.
What are some common recipes that include fresh seafood?
Answer: Some common recipes that include fresh seafood are fish tacos ceviche and shrimp scampi.
10.
How can I find fresh seafood?
Answer: You can find fresh seafood at most grocery stores or seafood markets.
You can also purchase it online from a number of different retailers.
