Food Safety

The change in diet and water can greatly affect students’ health while overseas. When trying new foods and getting used to a new diet overseas, take it slowly and do not overindulge in new foods too quickly. This gives newcomers’ bodies some time to adjust.

“Boil it, peel it or forget it!” This old adage is important when traveling to locations in the Global South (parts of Asia, Africa and Latin America) where it is unsafe to raw vegetables or unpeeled fruits. Students should be sure to find out from the local staff if they need to take any special precautions with foods. 

In many parts of the world (parts of Asia, Africa and Latin America), it is not uncommon for tap water to be unsafe to drink or even to use for brushing teeth. In these destinations, students will need to boil water to drink or drink bottled water.

When eating out, try to frequent establishments that serve foods fresh and piping hot. If a restaurant has no customers, there may be a reason!

Keep abreast of news reports regarding food contamination.