Which type of food is affected by Trichinosis?

Trichinosis is a parasitic disease caused by the ingestion of larvae from the Trichinella parasite, which is primarily associated with consuming undercooked or raw pork and wild game. These specific types of meat are known to harbor Trichinella spiralis and other species of the parasite. When these meats are not cooked to the appropriate temperatures, the larvae can survive and develop in the intestines of the consumer, leading to infection.

Other food types, such as vegetables, chicken, seafood, and dairy products, do not typically carry this parasite. While it is crucial to ensure proper cooking and handling of all foods to prevent other types of foodborne illnesses, Trichinosis specifically relates to the consumption of infected pork and wild game. Knowing this helps emphasize the importance of cooking pork and game meats thoroughly to safe internal temperatures to eliminate any risk of this infection.