8 Food Safety Tips When Traveling Abroad

Your travel plans are set. Your passport is ready. You’ve gone over all the details about where you’ll stay and what you’ll do. But, have you thought about what food safety is like at your destination?

The World Health Organization estimates that 600 million people fall sick each year from contaminated food or drinking water. That’s about one in 10 people!

Risks range from:

• Mild: travelers' diarrhea
• Serious: hepatitis A or typhoid, which can have long-term health effects
• Fatal: illness caused by harmful bacteria, parasites, viruses and chemical substances

If you're traveling, follow these tips:

Tip #1: Plan Ahead

• Research your destination. Anticipate issues, food safety or otherwise, that could arise during your trip.
• Find out about the water supply. Check if your destination has a drinkable water supply and medical care that is available in case you become ill. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travelers' Health and U.S. Department of State Travel Information are two resources.
• Check the altitude. Some people, especially children, can become sick above 8,000 feet.

Tip #2: Visit a Health Care Provider Before You Go

• Find out about vaccines. Depending on where you're traveling, you may need new or updated vaccines.
• Stock up on prescriptions. Get enough of your prescription drugs to last the entire trip. If need be, request a vacation exception to get enough for the whole time you will be gone. Also, fill prescriptions for any recommended special medications.
• Don't forget over-the-counter medications. Consider bringing over-the-counter medications with you in case you experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, heartburn or gas. Talk to your doctor about recommendations.

Tip #3: Pack Smartly

• Carry hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes. These can be used for washing your hands and cleaning surfaces.
• Stash nonperishable food items (that aren't liquids) in your carry-on luggage. Although many airports offer healthy options, it's helpful to have foods on hand for snacks or for when you land at your destination.
• Carry your health insurance card in your wallet. Place prescription drugs in your carry-on luggage. Check the TSA website to determine what's allowed on airplanes.
• Whenever in doubt, don't drink tap or well water or anything that was made with it, including fountain drinks. Your best bet is to opt for sealed beverages in bottles or cans.

Tip #4: Keep Your Guard Up

• Avoid raw meat, fish, shellfish and eggs. Just as in the U.S., you can get sick from undercooked, raw and contaminated foods and beverages.
• Reconsider raw produce, including salads. Raw fruits and vegetables are more likely to have germs or parasites that cause foodborne illness. To reduce your odds of getting sick, choose cooked produce or fruits with a thick peel that you can remove yourself (such as citrus fruits and bananas).

Tip #5: Err On the Side of Caution

• Steer clear of perishable foods that have been sitting at room temperature. Bacteria grows rapidly at room temperature. Make sure hot foods are served hot and cold foods are served cold.

Tip #6: Watch Out for All Water Sources

• If you have to ask, don’t drink it. A common question travelers ask when abroad: "Is the water safe?" The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends avoiding tap water in countries where tap water may be contaminated. This includes cocktails, ice and water to brush your teeth. Tap water can be contaminated with amoebas, parasites and viruses including hepatitis.
• Choose drinks in manufacturer-sealed containers. For example, bottled or canned beverages and pasteurized dairy products.

Tip #7: Wash Your Hands

• Clean your hands often. Whether at home or abroad, proper hand-washing is key to preventing foodborne illness.
• Use soap or hand sanitizer. Wash your hands with soap and clean water. This is especially important before eating and after using the bathroom. When soap and clean water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer instead. Pack it in your carry-on, purse or backpack for easy access.

Tip #8: Take Care of Yourself if You Get Sick

• Stay hydrated. If you get sick while on an international trip, it's extra important to stay hydrated.
• Seek help if you need medical treatment. If you have travel insurance, contact the provider's hotline for advice. The U.S. Department of State also can help travelers locate medical services.