Which two meats cannot be eaten raw?

Why You Should Never Eat Raw Pork or Chicken

While some food lovers enjoy the delicate texture of raw beef in dishes like steak tartare or carpaccio, not all meats belong on a raw menu. In fact, certain types of meat pose serious health risks when consumed uncooked—especially pork and chicken.

Raw pork is a definite no-go. It can harbor dangerous pathogens like *Trichinella spiralis*, a parasitic worm that causes trichinosis, as well as *Salmonella* and *Listeria*. Even in countries with strict food safety regulations, undercooked pork remains a risk. Cooking pork to the proper internal temperature is essential to destroy these harmful organisms.

Similarly, raw chicken is notoriously unsafe to eat. It’s frequently contaminated with *Salmonella* and *Campylobacter*, bacteria that can lead to severe food poisoning. These microbes are commonly found in poultry and are only killed through thorough cooking. Unlike beef, which can be safe raw if handled and sourced carefully, chicken doesn’t have the same margin for error.

While healthy adults might occasionally choose to eat raw beef—provided it’s fresh, high-quality, and handled with care—this doesn’t extend to other meats. Children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems should avoid raw animal products altogether.

The bottom line? Enjoy your steak tartare if you like, but keep the pork well-done and the chicken off the raw platter. Your body will thank you.