Specialists have provided insight into the reason why we can consume rare steak but not partially cooked chicken.
If you’ve ever pondered why people can enjoy a medium rare ribeye, yet poultry needs to be thoroughly cooked, there’s a fascinating explanation behind it.
Individual preferences vary when it comes to beef – some enjoy it pink and rare, while others prefer it fully cooked.
However, with chicken, it is essential that the meat is cooked until it’s completely white and any juices are clear.
So, what causes the difference in the preparation and consumption of these meats?
The explanation lies in the type of cut. Beef steaks are single muscle cuts, meaning any bacteria present is generally confined to the exterior of the fillet, which is typically eliminated during cooking.
Chicken differs, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note: “When cooked, chicken can be a nutritious choice, but raw chicken can be contaminated with Campylobacter, Salmonella, or Clostridium perfringens germs.”
Chicken is less dense, which allows bacteria on the outer part of the meat to penetrate the interior more easily.
Proper cooking eradicates the bacteria, making the chicken safe for consumption.
Partially cooked chicken can lead to foodborne illnesses.
The CDC indicates that Salmonella is responsible for more foodborne illnesses than any other bacteria.
They state: “If you eat undercooked chicken, you can get a foodborne illness, also called food poisoning. You can also get sick if you eat other foods or beverages that are contaminated by raw chicken or its juices.
“CDC estimates that every year in the United States about 1 million people get sick from eating contaminated poultry.
“Chicken is a major source of these illnesses. In fact, about 1 in every 25 packages of chicken at the grocery store are contaminated with Salmonella.”
The CDC advises storing chicken on the refrigerator’s bottom shelf and washing hands for at least 20 seconds after handling it.
Signs and symptoms of salmonella infection include:
These symptoms typically last a few days to a week, but recovery of regular stool patterns can take longer.
Should the illness persist for several days, involve high fever or bloody stools, or appear to cause dehydration, it is crucial to seek medical attention.