Diet guide: Be careful of these vegetables in monsoon, avoid foodborne illnesses
Diet tips: During the monsoon season, it is essential to choose vegetables carefully and practice proper washing and storage techniques to minimise the risk of foodborne illnesses. Here are 7 vegetables you need to be careful of.
The monsoon showers bring along a host of health challenges, especially through the vegetables you consume. Symptoms like indigestion, diarrhea, or even food poisoning become common issues exacerbated by improper handling or storage of vegetables during this wet season. It becomes vital to understand why certain veggies should be avoided during the rainy season to safeguard your health. During the monsoon, vegetables are susceptible to contamination and infestation by bacteria, molds, and worms due to increased moisture and humidity. This can lead to various health problems such as gastrointestinal infections, parasitic infestations, and foodborne illnesses. 7 vegetables you should avoid in rainy season (Image: Canva)
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Leafy greens: Leafy greens can harbour bacteria like E. coli and parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, especially if not washed thoroughly. They may also attract insects and worms due to damp conditions, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. To reduce risks, ensure thorough washing and cooking before consumption (Image: Canva)
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Cabbage: Cabbage traps moisture, creating an ideal environment for bacteria like E. coli to thrive. Improperly stored cabbage can lead to contamination and foodborne illness during the monsoon season (Image: Canva)
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Cauliflower: Cauliflower absorbs moisture quickly, which can lead to mold growth if not stored in a dry environment. It is also susceptible to infestation by insects and worms, posing health risks if consumed without proper washing and cooking (Image: Canva)
Bell peppers: Bell peppers have a high water content and thin skin, making them prone to mold and fungal growth in humid conditions. This leads to spoilage and potential health hazards if consumed. Choose peppers that are firm, dry, and free from spots or mold (Image: Canva)
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Tomatoes: Tomatoes are susceptible to fungal infections such as mold and mildew due to excess moisture during the monsoon. Consuming contaminated tomatoes can cause digestive issues and food poisoning symptoms. Store tomatoes in a cool, dry place and inspect for signs of mold or soft spots before consumption.
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Cucumbers: Cucumbers absorb water easily and can become contaminated with bacteria like Salmonella or fungi like Aspergillus if not stored properly. They are also vulnerable to mold growth, which can affect their safety for consumption. Store cucumbers in a dry place, wash thoroughly before eating, and consume promptly (Image: Canva)
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Green beans: Green beans are prone to developing mold and mildew quickly in damp weather conditions. They may also harbour pests and insects, posing health risks if not thoroughly cleaned and cooked. Choose green beans that are dry, firm, and free from discolouration or mold (Image: Canva)
Namita S Kalla is a senior journalist who writes about different aspects of modern life that include lifestyle, health, fashion, beauty, and entertainment.
