"Food Safety Experts Weigh In on the Risks of Drinking Eggnog"
Drinking eggnog during the holidays can pose a risk of foodborne illnesses such as salmonella, listeria, E. coli, and campylobacter due to the raw eggs and dairy used in its preparation. While pasteurization can eliminate these pathogens, most eggs in grocery stores are not pasteurized. Store-bought eggnog is a safer choice as it undergoes proper pasteurization. Cross-contamination and improper handling can also contribute to the spread of bacteria. It is important to keep perishable foods refrigerated, maintain proper hygiene, and serve eggnog in individual cups rather than communal containers to reduce the risk of infection.