Can you eat raw pepperoni?
Quick Answer
No
Eating raw pepperoni is not recommended as it can contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella, which can cause foodborne illnesses.
What Is It?
Pepperoni is a type of salami, made from a mix of cured pork and beef seasoned with paprika or other chili pepper. The ‘raw’ pepperoni refers to the product before it’s cooked or heated.
Why It Can Be Risky
Consuming raw pepperoni poses several health risks:
- Risk of foodborne illnesses due to potential presence of harmful bacteria
- Possible allergic reactions
- Digestive issues due to high fat content
Safe Method?
Pepperoni should be cooked or heated before consumption to kill any potential bacteria. It can be used as a topping for pizza, baked into breads, or cooked into pasta dishes.
Storage Tips
Store unopened pepperoni in a cool, dry place’, ‘Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within a week’, ‘For longer storage, pepperoni can be frozen for up to two months
Preparation Tips
Pepperoni can be sliced or diced before cooking. It’s best to cook it at a high temperature for a short period of time to maintain its flavor and texture.