UK Advises Under-Fives And Pregnant Women To Avoid Runny Eggs When Eating Out

UK Advises Under-Fives and Pregnant Women to Avoid Runny Eggs When Eating Out Children under five and pregnant women in the UK are being advised to avoid runny eggs when eating out because of concerns over salmonella contamination. The precautionary advice follows concerns that eggs served outside the home may not always be produced or handled under the same safety standards as eggs prepared domestically. Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning, with symptoms including diarrhoea, vomiting, abdominal cramps and fever. While most healthy people recover without serious complications, infection can be more severe for vulnerable groups. Young children and pregnant women are considered more susceptible to complications from foodborne infections, making careful food preparation particularly important. The guidance does not mean people must avoid eggs altogether. Fully cooked eggs remain a nutritious source of protein and other essential nutrients. The key precaution is ensuring that eggs are cooked thoroughly, particularly when eating at restaurants, cafés and other food outlets. Health authorities have also continued to advise consumers to follow good food-safety practices, including proper refrigeration and avoiding cross-contamination when preparing eggs and other foods at home. The warning highlights the importance of extra caution when eating food prepared outside the home, particularly for groups at greater risk from foodborne illness.