Can you eat raw bacon?
Quick Answer
No
Eating raw bacon can expose you to harmful bacteria such as Trichinella, E. coli, and Salmonella, which can lead to foodborne illnesses.
What Is It?
Raw bacon is a meat product that has been cured but not cooked. It is usually made from pork belly or back cuts.
How to Tell
Raw bacon is usually pink in color with white streaks of fat. It has a soft texture and a raw meat smell.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating raw bacon poses several health risks due to the presence of harmful bacteria.
- Food poisoning: Consuming raw bacon can lead to foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Trichinella.
- Parasitic infections: Raw bacon can contain parasites that can cause serious health problems.
Safe Method?
The safe method to consume bacon is by cooking it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by a rest period of three minutes.
Safe Alternatives
If you enjoy the taste of bacon but want to avoid the risks associated with eating it raw, consider trying cooked bacon or bacon substitutes like turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon.
Storage Tips
Raw bacon should be stored in the refrigerator at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below and used within 7 days of opening. It can also be frozen for up to a month.
Preparation Tips
Before cooking bacon, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This will help the fat render more effectively, resulting in crispier bacon.