Cancer survivors often have weakened immune systems due to treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. While the immune system gradually recovers over time, it may still remain vulnerable to infections, including foodborne illnesses. According to the national food poisoning lawyer, Ron Simon, “food poisoning, caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins in contaminated food, can be particularly dangerous for those with weakened immunity.”
To reduce the risk, cancer survivors should follow strict food safety guidelines. This article explores essential practices for preventing food poisoning, including safe food handling, cooking, and storage methods.
Understanding the Risk
The immune system helps fight off harmful pathogens that cause foodborne illnesses. However, cancer treatments can damage white blood cells, making it harder for the body to fight infections. This means that even a small amount of bacteria in food that wouldn’t typically make a healthy person sick can cause severe illness in cancer survivors. Common foodborne pathogens include:
- Salmonella (found in raw eggs, poultry, and unpasteurized dairy)
- Listeria (found in deli meats, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized milk)
- E. coli (found in undercooked beef, contaminated produce, and unpasteurized juices)
- Norovirus (transmitted through contaminated food and surfaces)
By taking the right precautions, cancer survivors can significantly reduce their risk of food poisoning.
Safe Food Handling Practices
1. Wash Hands and Surfaces Frequently
- Properly wash hands with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
- Clean kitchen surfaces, cutting boards, and utensils with hot, soapy water or disinfectant wipes.
- Use separate cutting boards for raw meat, poultry, and seafood to prevent cross-contamination.
2. Keep Raw and Cooked Foods Separate
- Store raw meats in sealed containers on the lowest shelf of the refrigerator to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.
- Use different knives and plates for raw and cooked foods.
3. Wash Fruits and Vegetables Thoroughly
- Rinse all fresh produce under running water, even if you plan to peel them.
- Use a produce brush for items with thick skins, such as melons and cucumbers.
Cooking Foods Safely
Proper cooking kills harmful bacteria and reduces the risk of foodborne illness. Cancer survivors should ensure that food is cooked to safe internal temperatures:
- Poultry (chicken, turkey, duck) – 165°F (74°C)
- Ground meats (beef, pork, lamb, veal) – 160°F (71°C)
- Steaks, roasts, fish – 145°F (63°C)
- Egg dishes – Cook until the yolk and white are firm
- Leftovers and casseroles – Reheat to 165°F (74°C)
Using a food thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure proper cooking temperatures. Avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood, eggs, and meats.
Food Storage and Refrigeration
Improper food storage can lead to bacterial growth. Follow these guidelines to keep food safe:
- Refrigerate perishable foods (meat, dairy, eggs) within two hours of cooking.
- Store leftovers in shallow containers for quicker cooling.
- Set the refrigerator to 40°F (4°C) or below and the freezer to 0°F (-18°C).
- Use leftovers within three to four days or freeze for longer storage.
- Check expiration dates on food packaging and discard expired products.
Foods to Avoid
Cancer survivors should be extra cautious about high-risk foods, which are more likely to contain harmful bacteria. Avoid:
- Unpasteurized dairy products (raw milk, soft cheeses like Brie, feta, and queso fresco)
- Raw or undercooked seafood, meat, and eggs (including sushi, rare steaks, and runny eggs)
- Deli meats and hot dogs (unless heated to steaming hot)
- Pre-packaged salads or cut fruits (as they may harbor bacteria)
- Raw sprouts (alfalfa, bean sprouts, etc.) due to the risk of bacterial contamination
Dining Out Safely
When eating out, cancer survivors should take extra precautions:
- Choose restaurants with high cleanliness ratings.
- Request that food be cooked well-done.
- Avoid salad bars and buffets, where food sits out for long periods.
- Bring hand sanitizer to use before meals.
- If food tastes or smells off, don’t eat it.
Cancer Survivors Must b “Especially” VIgilant
Food poisoning can be serious for cancer survivors, but following strict food safety practices can help minimize the risk. By washing hands, cooking foods thoroughly, storing food properly, and avoiding high-risk items, survivors can protect their health and enjoy meals safely.
