Deli meats
Ready-to-eat meats like ham, bologna, hot dogs, and sliced turkey can also become contaminated, particularly if they come into contact with raw products or are handled improperly. Listeria outbreaks have often been linked to deli counters rather than sealed, prepackaged meats. To reduce risk, keep lunch meats refrigerated, consume them promptly, and heat hot dogs or similar products until steaming before eating—especially for those in higher-risk groups.
Food poisoning can happen to anyone, but careful handling, proper storage, and thorough cooking can dramatically reduce the chances. Awareness is the first step toward prevention—because when it comes to food safety, caution in the kitchen is always better than regret later.
