To ensure you stay healthy during your travels, here are ten foods you should think twice about before piling them onto your plate at a hotel breakfast buffet.
1. Scrambled Eggs
Scrambled eggs are a breakfast staple, but they can be risky if not cooked and stored correctly. Buffets often keep them in chafing dishes, which may not maintain the proper temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
If the eggs appear runny or have been sitting out for a long time, it's best to avoid them. Look for signs of freshness, such as a consistent texture and warm temperature, or opt for freshly cooked eggs from a live cooking station if available.
2. Sliced Fresh Fruits
While fresh fruit is generally healthy, the way it is handled at buffets can pose risks. Pre-sliced fruits are prone to contamination from unclean utensils or surfaces and may not be stored at the appropriate temperature.
Melons, in particular, are susceptible to bacterial growth when left out. Choose whole fruits you can wash yourself or those that have a thick peel, such as bananas or oranges.
3. Deli Meats
Deli meats like ham, turkey, and salami are common on breakfast buffets, but they can be breeding grounds for bacteria if not stored correctly.
They need to be kept at a consistent, cold temperature to prevent the growth of pathogens like Listeria. If the deli meats are not on ice or don't feel cold to the touch, it's safer to skip them.
4. Yogurt
Yogurt is a nutritious option, but it must be kept cold. At buffets, it is often presented in large bowls, which can quickly reach room temperature. If the yogurt looks like it has been out for a while or isn't in a chilled container, it's best to avoid it. Single-serve containers from a refrigerated display are a safer choice.
5. Pastries and Baked Goods
Pastries, donuts, and other baked goods are often left uncovered on buffet tables, making them susceptible to contamination from guests handling them and from exposure to the open air.
They also tend to be high in sugar and unhealthy fats, which isn't the best way to start your day. If you crave something sweet, opt for sealed, pre-packaged options.
6. Hot Cereals
Oatmeal and other hot cereals can be a nutritious choice, but they need to be kept at the right temperature to prevent bacteria growth. Buffets often use chafing dishes or slow cookers that may not maintain a consistently high temperature.
If the cereal appears too thick or crusty around the edges, it might have been sitting out too long. Freshly made oatmeal from a dedicated station is a better option.
7. Unwashed Raw Vegetables
Raw vegetables can be a healthy part of breakfast, but only if they are properly washed. Buffets might not always thoroughly clean vegetables before serving them, leaving residues of pesticides or bacteria. Opt for vegetables that are less likely to need washing, such as those with a protective outer skin, or choose cooked vegetables.
8. Pancakes and Waffles
Pancakes and waffles are often left in warming trays, which can lead to sogginess and a loss of freshness. More importantly, these trays might not keep them at a safe temperature to prevent bacterial growth. If you want pancakes or waffles, see if the buffet has a live station where they can be made fresh to order.
9. Milk and Cream for Coffee
Milk and creamers left out for coffee can quickly reach unsafe temperatures, especially if they are in open pitchers rather than single-serve containers. Bacteria thrive in dairy products left at room temperature.
To avoid this, use individually packaged creamers or choose black coffee if you’re unsure about the milk’s freshness.
10. Smoothies and Fresh Juices
Smoothies and fresh juices are often prepared in bulk and left out in pitchers, making them prone to contamination and spoilage. Unless you see the smoothie or juice being freshly made, it's safer to avoid these beverages.
Opt for pasteurized, sealed juice containers or whole fruits to make your own juice if a juicer is available.
Tips for a Safe Hotel Breakfast Buffet Experience
1. Observe Hygiene Practices: Pay attention to how food is handled and stored. If you notice poor hygiene practices, such as staff not wearing gloves or hairnets, it’s a red flag.
2. Choose Cooked Foods: Cooked foods are generally safer than raw options because cooking kills most bacteria. Opt for freshly cooked items from live stations when possible.
3. Use Hand Sanitizer: Use hand sanitizer before and after handling buffet utensils to minimize the risk of transferring bacteria to your food.
4. Check Temperature Controls: Foods should be either hot or cold. Lukewarm dishes can be breeding grounds for bacteria.
5. Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn’t look or smell right, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid it.
Conclusion
While hotel breakfast buffets offer convenience and variety, they also come with potential health risks if food is not properly handled and stored. By being selective and mindful of what you choose to eat, you can enjoy your breakfast without compromising your health.
Stick to safer options, such as whole fruits, cooked foods, and items from live cooking stations, and always observe the general hygiene and temperature practices of the buffet.
Your health is worth a little extra scrutiny, ensuring that your travels are enjoyable and illness-free.