Eating safely while abroad can be difficult as many developing countries have poor hygiene. Many diseases are more common abroad as they would be at home.
Water can be contaminated with human or animal waste, leading to the transmission of many illnesses. Even "pristine" mountain streams can be unsafe to drink from. Precautions like water filters, iodine purification, and boiling are necessary.
Heating water kills all organisms after 10 minutes. Boiling water raises the temperature high enough so the water is safe to drink. Filters will help remove sediment and claims are made that they will remove viruses. These claims are controversial.
Halogen chemical (Chlorine or iodine) are added to water to kill parasites. If the contact time is enough, it will make fluids safe to drink. Many other purifiers are being developed.
Tap water should be avoided. Ice cubes, unless guaranteed sterile, should be avoided. Local bottled water is often prepared with local tap water and should also be avoided.
While traveling, be careful of foods that could be contaminated from the start: Shellfish - Hepatitis A, Chicken, Salmonella, uncooked vegetables, E coli, and unpasteurized dairy products. Food handlers can also contaminate food.Uncooked meat, such as beef, pork, and fish can also have parasites.
We recommend that travelers eat only meat that has been well cooked and not just reheated. Eat only fruits and vegetable that you have peeled yourself, and consume only pasteurized dairy. Avoid raw eggs, buffet food that has been out for a long time, or street vendor foods unless you can see that it is hot and well cooked.
