4 foods to avoid on a cruise

Cruise ships are known for their mouth-watering array of dishes and all-you-can-eat buffets. And with the amount of time we spend on most cruises, it’s easy to try just about everything on the menu. However, as tasty as all of it sounds, some dishes are best steered clear from since they can give you an upset stomach. Here are four such foods that people must avoid eating on a cruise.

4 foods to stay away from on cruises

Raw eggs
Eggs are healthy for our overall health, but the way they are cooked can also make a difference. On a cruise, eating eggs sunny-side-up can upset the system. As they are runny and might be slightly undercooked, the protein may contain salmonella or listeria remnants unless it is cooked to at least 160 degrees.

Oysters
Everyone loves cracking open and eating fresh oysters on a cruise, especially with a drink. But fresh oysters that are not cleaned appropriately by the staff may put one at risk of contracting Vibrio bacteria. The bacteria may lead to vibriosis, a disease that leads to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills.

Unpasteurized milk
The milk served on a cruise is often pasteurized. But cruises may use unpasteurized milk too. Unpasteurized milk and other unpasteurized dairy products, like cheese and butter, contain germs E. coli, cryptosporidium, and listeria, which can impact our well-being. It’s advisable to check with a crew about whether their dairy products are pasteurized or not before consuming them.

Sushi
Cruise ships are known for their onboard sushi bars, which many passengers enjoy as a delicacy. But this raw, cured treat can become a health risk. Sushi may contain clostridium perfringens, a common bacteria found in raw meat, which is one of the most common foodborne illnesses in the country. Thus, it is best to turn to seafood that is properly cooked. If you absolutely must have sushi, try to ensure that its temperature has been controlled as required.