The Zoomer Report: Foods most likely to make you sick

That's the conclusion of a report by the U.S. Center for Science in the Public Interest. It shows leafy greens, sprouts, and berries are among the most prone to carry infections or toxins.

The group analyzed data on food illness outbreaks dating back to 1990, but it did not include meat and poultry. The researchers conclude that the hazards now come from all areas of the food supply: not only high-risk products, like meat and dairy, but also the must-eat components of a healthy diet, like fruits and vegetables.

They found that leafy greens were involved in 363 outbreaks and more than 13,000 illnesses, mostly caused by norovirus, E. coli, and salmonella bacteria.

The rest of the top 10 list included:
•    Eggs
•    Tuna
•    Oysters,
•    Potatoes
•    Cheese
•    Ice cream
•    Tomatoes
•    Sprouts
•    Berries

The report doesn't recommend that we change our eating habits. It advocates what it calls "defensive eating," including keeping food cold and cooking it thoroughly, chilling oysters and avoiding them when raw, and staying away from raw eggs.

The situation is probably similar to what happens here, but bear in mind this analysis focused only on foods regulated by the American Food and Drug Administration.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/ kivoart

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About The Zoomer Report

Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, "In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge" - was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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