Is it ok to eat raw cream?
Quick Answer
No, it’s not generally recommended.
Raw cream, like other raw dairy products, can contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria. These bacteria can cause foodborne illnesses, especially in people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, pregnant women, and children.
What Is It?
Raw cream is cream that has not been pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that kills harmful bacteria by heating milk to a specific temperature for a set period of time.
Historical Context
In the past, before the invention of pasteurization, all dairy products were consumed raw. However, this often led to outbreaks of diseases such as tuberculosis and brucellosis.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating raw cream comes with several risks:
- Foodborne illnesses: Raw cream can contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, which can cause serious illnesses.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to certain proteins found in raw cream.
Safe Method?
The safest way to consume cream is to ensure it has been pasteurized. Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria without significantly altering the taste or nutritional content of the cream.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re looking for the rich taste of raw cream but without the risks, consider using pasteurized cream or non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Storage Tips
Cream should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to slow the growth of bacteria. It should be used within a week of opening.