Eating Well As You Get Older

Frequently Asked Questions

38. What foods should older adults avoid to reduce the chance of getting foodborne illness? - cont'd

To reduce the chance of getting foodborne illness, older adults should avoid certain foods that may carry harmful bacteria, including

• hot dogs and luncheon meats, unless they are reheated until steaming hot or 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert, unless labeled "made with pasteurized milk." Pasteurized food has been heated to high enough temperatures to destroy disease-causing organisms.
• uncooked sprouts, such as bean, alfalfa, clover, or radish sprouts.