From deli meats to cucumbers, a growing number of food products are being recalled due to contamination, and the trend isn’t slowing down. In 2024 alone, nearly 40% of all food recalls were tied to Listeria, Salmonella, or E. coli, and related hospitalizations have nearly doubled. So, how can you protect yourself and your family? The answer might start in your backyard—or at your local farmers market.
Here are the 10 foods topping the risk charts:
- Deli Meats: A Listeria Magnet, Deli Meat Can Carry Serious Risks, Especially for Vulnerable Groups. Heating it thoroughly is the safest bet.
- Cucumbers: Contaminated soil and water are common sources of contamination. Wash well—or better yet, grow your own.
- Raw Milk & Cheese: These skip the pasteurization process, leaving harmful bacteria intact. Stick to pasteurized options unless you know the farm source.
- Cotija & Queso Fresco: Soft cheeses with high moisture content can harbor Listeria. Cooking helps, but sourcing locally adds an extra layer of trust.
- Eggs: Salmonella is the main concern. Keep a few backyard hens or buy from small, reputable farms when possible, and always cook thoroughly.
- Onions: E. coli outbreaks linked to contaminated soil are common. Peel the outer layers and cook well.
- Leafy Greens: A leading source of foodborne illness. Try growing lettuce at home or buying hydroponically grown greens.
- Organic Carrots: Even organic produce can carry bacteria. Carrots are easy to source locally, or grow your own.
- Basil: Herbs like basil are often consumed raw, making thorough rinsing and careful sourcing essential. Try growing a windowsill herb garden for easy access to safe herbs.
- Cooked Poultry & Meats: Even “ready-to-eat” can be risky. Always reheat to 165°F and store in the refrigerator.
Try This: You don’t have to fear your food—just be smart about it. Growing your produce or shopping locally can reduce exposure to widespread contamination and give you more control over food safety. And when in doubt, wash, cook, and check recall alerts before you dig in.