Raw meat has existed for many years. It was popular among ancient Mesoamerican cultures, and still, some regions in the world consume raw meat. However, in modern times, it’s advisable to avoid consuming raw meat. Raw meat is prone to contamination with different kinds of harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. These pathogens can cause severe foodborne illnesses that can even be fatal.
Eating raw meat is more dangerous than cooked meat. Cooking meat is the process of exposing it to high heat in order to kill all bacteria and viruses. However, consuming raw meat exposes us to a high risk of getting sick.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, raw or undercooked beef, poultry, and seafood are the primary culprits of foodborne illnesses. The risk of consuming raw meat is higher in young children, pregnant women, elderly, and people with weakened immune systems, as their immune systems may not be strong enough to fight off infections.
Food-borne illnesses can have severe symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In some cases, these infections can lead to more severe complications such as dehydration, kidney failure, and even death. Prevention of such illnesses is than cure. It’s better to avoid consuming raw meat than to expose ourselves to such risks.
Consuming raw meat is a controversial subject, as some communities value it as a traditional food. However, as we live in an ever-increasingly interconnected world, we must weigh the possible risks versus the benefits. While the taste and thrill of consuming raw meat might be attractive, we should be cautious of potential risks.
Moreover, raw meat is not the only source of harmful bacteria. Produce such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs can also harbor pathogens that can cause food-borne illnesses. This is why it’s crucial to wash hands and produce before consuming or cooking.
In conclusion, it is advisable to avoid consuming raw meat. Raw meat poses a severe risk of contracting food-borne illnesses caused by harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. Prevention of such illnesses is better than cure, and it’s better to avoid exposing ourselves to such risks. While the taste and thrill of consuming raw meat might be attractive, we must weigh the possible risks versus the benefits. Moreover, it’s important to wash hands and produce before consuming or cooking to prevent contracting food-borne illnesses.