8 foods you should never eat raw

Sep 10, 2024

By: Ayush Mehrotra

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Potatoes

Raw potatoes contain solanine, a toxic compound that can cause nausea, headaches, and digestive issues. Cooking potatoes reduces solanine levels.

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Chicken and Other Poultry

Raw chicken and poultry may contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can lead to food poisoning. Always cook chicken thoroughly to kill any bacteria.

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Cauliflower

Raw cauliflower can cause digestive discomfort, like bloating and gas, due to its high fibre content and the presence of complex sugars called raffinose, which are difficult to digest. Cooking cauliflower breaks down these sugars, making it easier to digest and reducing the risk of digestive issues.

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Kidney Beans

Raw kidney beans contain phytohaemagglutinin, a toxic protein that can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Cooking beans properly destroys this toxin.

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Mushrooms

Some mushrooms contain toxins that are only destroyed by cooking. It is essential to identify and cook mushrooms properly to avoid poisoning.

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Eggs

Raw eggs can carry Salmonella bacteria. Consuming them raw can lead to foodborne illness. Cooking eggs kills the bacteria.

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Beetroot

Raw beetroot contains high levels of oxalates, which can contribute to kidney stone formation in some people. Cooking beetroot can reduce the oxalate content and make it easier to digest. Additionally, cooking helps break down the fibre, making it easier to absorb its nutrients.

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Milk

Unpasteurized milk contains harmful bacteria like E. coli, Listeria, and Salmonella, which can cause severe foodborne illnesses.

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