Is it safe to eat raw lamb?
Quick Answer
No
Eating raw lamb can expose you to harmful bacteria and parasites, such as E. coli and Salmonella, which can cause foodborne illnesses.
What Is It?
Raw lamb refers to the meat of a sheep that has not been cooked or processed in any way.
Why It Can Be Risky
There are several risks associated with eating raw lamb:
- Exposure to harmful bacteria and parasites
- Risk of foodborne illnesses like E. coli and Salmonella
- Potential for allergic reactions
Safe Method?
The safest way to consume lamb is to cook it to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit, as recommended by the USDA.
Safe Alternatives
If you enjoy the taste of lamb but want to avoid the risks associated with eating it raw, consider alternatives like lamb tartare or carpaccio, which are prepared using methods that can kill harmful bacteria.
Storage Tips
Store raw lamb in the refrigerator at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below’, ‘Use raw lamb within 3-5 days of purchase’, “Freeze raw lamb if you won’t be using it within the recommended time frame”]
Preparation Tips
Always wash your hands before and after handling raw lamb’, ‘Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other foods to prevent cross-contamination’, ‘Cook lamb to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit