10 Foods to Never Eat Raw and Their Health Risks |

Eating raw food is popular because many people think it is healthier and retains more nutrients. But not every item is safe to consume raw. Certain uncooked ingredients contain toxins, dangerous germs, or other substances that can cause anything from mild gastrointestinal upset to fatal illness. Cooking is essential for food safety because it neutralizes dangerous compounds and eliminates microorganisms, even though it may reduce some nutrients.
Certain foods, such as raw meat and eggs, as well as various fruits and vegetables, must be prepared properly to minimize the dangers. You need to understand the potential health risks associated with some common foods that you should never eat uncooked. To protect yourself and eat a safe, balanced diet, you need to be aware of these risks.

1. Eggs:

According to Simrat Kathuria, chief dietitian and CEO of The Diet Xperts, “Salmonella, a bacteria that can cause serious food poisoning, can be present in raw or undercooked eggs. Fever, abdominal cramps, diarrhea and vomiting are some of the symptoms. Using pasteurized eggs in recipes that call for raw eggs, such as homemade mayonnaise or candy, is essential to reduce the risk.”

2. Mushrooms (some types):

Although some types of mushrooms, such as button mushrooms, can be safely eaten raw, many wild and some cultivated species contain toxins that can lead to organ damage, nausea and vomiting. For example, amanita and other wild mushrooms can be deadly. Cooking mushrooms increases their digestibility and helps neutralize toxic chemicals.

3. Cashew Nuts:

The same toxic substance present in poison ivy, urushiol, is also present in raw cashews. Eating raw cashews can cause serious allergic reactions, including rash and shortness of breath. Commercial cashews, on the other hand, are usually roasted to remove the poison and make them safe for consumption.

4. Potatoes:

Solanine, a toxic substance that can cause nausea, vomiting and neurological problems, is present in raw potatoes, especially the green parts and sprouts. This poison is completely eliminated when potatoes are cooked, making them safe to consume.

5. Beans:

According to Dr. Preeti Nagar, dietitian at Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences College and Hospital, “Lectins, a type of protein found in raw kidney beans, can cause nausea and severe stomach upset. When the beans are cooked, the lectins are completely neutralized and they are safe to eat.”

6. Pumpkin (Kaddu):

Although the meat can be eaten raw in small quantities, it is usually cooked to improve its sweetness and digestibility.

7. Bottle Gourd (Lauki):

This vegetable is often used in curries and soups. Eating raw can lead to digestive problems, so it is best cooked.

8. Cabbage (Patta Gobhi):

Although some people like raw cabbage in salads, cooking it can help reduce its gas-producing properties.

9. Eggplant (Baingan):

Raw eggplant can be bitter and contains solanine. Cooking it makes it safe and improves the taste.

10. Cauliflower (Gobi):

Although it can be eaten raw, cooking it in dishes such as curries or stir-fries can make it more flavorful and easier to digest.