The dangers of washing chicken before cooking it

Many people think they should wash the chicken before cooking it. This is a common mistake that increases the risk of food poisoning.

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has long warned that washing chicken before cooking increases the risk of spreading Campylobacter bacteria onto hands, surfaces, clothing and kitchen utensils by splashing water droplets. Water.

However, many people continue to make the same mistake.

When you wash the chicken, the water ends up splashing around. In this way, bacteria can end up entering our body through, for example, a knife that is near the sink.

Still, according to the FSA, 44% of people in the UK wash chicken before cooking. The most cited reasons for doing so are to remove dirt or germs, or simply out of habit.

Enteritis (inflammation of the lining of the small intestine) from Campylobacter is one of the most common causes of food poisoning.

Infection usually occurs due to consumption of undercooked poultry, fresh vegetables, or unpasteurized milk.

This bacteria is spread by eating infected food and can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

Sequelae of infection

Most people are only sick for a few days, but the infection can cause long-term health problems.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Guillain-Barré syndrome, which attacks the peripheral nervous system, are some of the conditions that people who have contracted the bacteria can later develop.

Contamination by Campylobacter can also lead to death. People most at risk are children and older adults.

Typically, treatment for an infection with this bacteria consists of drinking plenty of water and eating small portions of food throughout the day, rather than large amounts at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with foods rich in potassium.

However, each case may vary, so it is always recommended to see a doctor.

*This text was originally published on BBC News Brazil.