Imagine you’ve finally arrived at your long-awaited vacation spot: summer beaches, exquisite local dishes, and new experiences at every turn. But in one unexpected moment, this dream can turn into an unpleasant ordeal due to a health problem common among travelers—food poisoning, especially during the hot summer months. It is estimated that 30% to 70% of travelers experience diarrhea, which is one of the symptoms of food poisoning, during or shortly after their trip. Let’s look at the main causes of food poisoning and ways to prevent them during a tourist trip.

Causes of Food Poisoning During Summer Trips

Causes of Food Poisoning While Traveling

The primary causes of food poisoning are bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter are common pathogens often found in undercooked meat, unpasteurized dairy products, and contaminated water. Viruses like norovirus contaminate food and water, causing disease outbreaks. Parasites are less common but can be found in raw or undercooked meat and contaminated water, leading to infections such as toxoplasmosis.

Food poisoning is a common issue travelers face, especially when visiting foreign countries with different eating habits and food handling methods. Additionally, poisoning can occur from eating food that has sat at room temperature for too long, allowing bacteria to multiply rapidly. Travelers should be aware of these potential risks and take the necessary precautions.

Tips to Avoid Food Poisoning While Traveling

Since prevention is always better than a cure, nutritional awareness becomes an essential part of any successful trip.

Eat Where the Locals Eat

There is no need to completely avoid street food or local restaurants if you exercise caution. In fact, market stalls and family-run eateries often provide the most memorable experiences. One way to reduce the risk of illness is to choose places that are consistently frequented by locals. It’s unlikely a local would return to the same restaurant or street vendor if they got sick there. It is also recommended to prioritize establishments where food is prepared fresh to order rather than kept pre-made.

Read Restaurant Reviews

It is recommended to browse online restaurant reviews before visiting, paying attention to any reports of illness or concerns about cleanliness.

Wash Your Hands Constantly

Regular handwashing is essential. While traveling, you may touch common surfaces (such as subway handrails, elevator buttons, and public restroom doors), which increases the risk of picking up germs. Be sure to wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.

Check if Tap Water is Potable

Tap water is safe to drink in many countries, but certainly not everywhere. Research this thoroughly before your trip.
If the tap water at your destination is not potable, you will need to buy bottled water. Try to keep your mouth closed while showering to avoid accidentally swallowing water, as this can cause illness. Avoid using tap water to brush your teeth; using bottled or filtered water is recommended. This seemingly simple change can prevent unwanted stomach issues and ensure a more comfortable trip.

Choose Cooked Foods Over Fresh Ones

Some health experts advise sticking to cooked foods instead of raw ones, and consuming fruits and vegetables only if they are peeled.
The idea is that high temperatures and boiling water kill germs and contaminants, while removing the skin reduces the risk of ingesting germs that may have been stuck on the surface of the fruit.

Be Careful with Ice Cream and Cold Desserts

Frozen desserts are delicious but can be tricky. Stick to industrially produced ice cream and avoid homemade varieties prone to contamination. Repeated thawing and refreezing leads to bacterial growth, turning a tasty treat into a bitter experience. Choosing hermetically sealed products ensures safety and allows you to enjoy every bite with peace of mind.

Avoid Buffets

Beware of buffets, street stalls, or any other establishments where food sits at room temperature for more than an hour. Room temperature (between 40 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit / 4 to 60 degrees Celsius) is considered the “danger zone.” Even cooked meat and other dishes are at risk of excessive bacterial growth at these temperatures. When these bacteria multiply uncontrollably, they can cause illness.

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