Travelers are being urged to avoid consuming street food while abroad because unsafe street food can cause serious illness and even death. Public health experts emphasize that protecting one’s health while traveling is paramount.

Street food is a vital part of many cultures and feeds millions daily, but it also carries risks when prepared or stored under unhygienic conditions. Some estimates indicate that as many as 600 million people in India alone fall ill each year after consuming contaminated street food. Such figures illustrate the potential scale of the problem and the urgent need for improved food safety practices.

How Street Food Becomes Dangerous

• Contamination occurs when food is handled with dirty utensils or by vendors who do not practice proper hand hygiene.

• Improper storage and temperature control allow bacteria and toxins to multiply.

• Unsafe water used in cooking or cleaning and the use of low-quality or adulterated ingredients increase the risk of foodborne disease.

• Cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods further raises the chance of infection.

Health Consequences

Foodborne illnesses range from mild gastroenteritis to severe infections that require hospitalization. Vulnerable travelers, including children, the elderly, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems, face higher risks. In extreme cases, severe infections and complications can be fatal.

Advice for Travelers

• Prioritize cooked, hot food served fresh rather than pre-cooked or reheated items.

• Choose stalls with visible, high turnover and clean preparation areas.

• Observe vendor hygiene, such as handwashing, glove use, and covered containers.

• Avoid raw or undercooked animal products and salads washed in unverified water.

• Drink bottled or properly treated water and avoid ice made from unknown sources.

• Carry basic oral rehydration salts and know where to seek medical care if symptoms appear.

Health is the most valuable asset travelers have. Taking simple precautions around street food reduces the chance of illness and ensures a safer, more enjoyable trip.