QUESTION: Food and gastronomy: how to try street food safely?

Safely getting acquainted with local street food is the key to ensuring that your trip is not overshadowed by health problems. Street food allows you to better understand the culture and traditions of the country, but it requires certain precautions. For this, it is recommended to use the seventy-thirty rule, according to which seventy percent of your gastronomic route and dining spots should be thoroughly checked and planned in advance, while thirty percent can be left for spontaneous discoveries and culinary exploration.

The first street safety rule is to choose dining spots with a high flow of locals. If there is a long queue of local grandmothers and families with children at a street food stall, this is the main indicator of fresh products and high cooking quality. Avoid deserted places where food sits out in the open air for a long time, attracting insects and being exposed to dust and heat.

The second important point is related to heat treatment and hygiene rules at the street trading spot. Make sure that the dish you choose is cooked right in front of you over high heat and served absolutely hot. Refuse to consume raw vegetables, unpeeled fruits, and drinks of dubious origin, which may contain ice made from untreated tap water.

The third recommendation concerns your own hygiene while eating on the street. Always carry antibacterial wet wipes and hand sanitizer with you to thoroughly clean your hands before touching food. A reasonable approach to choosing street food will allow you to enjoy authentic flavors without risking your health.