How long does food poisoning from meat last?
In this brief article, we will answer the question “How long does food poisoning from meat last?”, and tell you how to properly store cooked meat. We will also tell you what food poisoning is and how to manage it.
How long does food poisoning from meat last?
Food poisoning usually lasts for about 1-2 days and then resolves on its own if it’s mild. It depends on which type of pathogen caused it, the severity of the symptoms, and the amount of pathogen or toxin ingested.
Severe food poisoning is usually when the diarrhea lasts for more than 3 days accompanied by high grade fever. In that case, it may take longer to revolve and may require a visit to the hospital.
How to store meat so it does not spoil?
Meat is a highly perishable food item that can not be left out at room temperature whether it is cooked or uncooked. This is because bacteria rapidly starts to grow on it and spoils it. Follow these steps while storing meat.
- Let the cooked meat come back to room temperature after cooking it.
- Never let the cooked meat sit out for more than 2 hours.
- After it has been cooled, place it in an airtight container or a sealable ziplock bag.
- Place it in the fridge.
If you wish to store it in the freezer, it is better to separate it into serving sizes then place it in a ziplock bag. Remove all the air from the bag and then place it in the freezer.
This way it is easier to take out only one serving at a time for thawing and reheating.
What is food poisoning and what are the symptoms?
Food poisoning, or foodborne illness, is something a person gets after eating spoiled or contaminated food. Some pathogens do not alter the texture or taste of food so it is not easy to tell if the food has been contaminated or not.
It is caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or their toxins. The most common pathogen causing food poisoning is Salmonella which is usually present in poultry and other dairy products.
It is very common and it rarely ever goes undetected.
The symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, malaise, loss of appetite and headache. The symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Food poisoning can be severe if the diarrhea lasts for more than three days which is accompanied by high fever. Severe vomiting and inability to keep food down can also lead to dehydration.
In case of dehydration, admission to a hospital may be necessary as it can lead to serious consequences.
Learn more about food poisoning here.
How to manage food poisoning?
Mild to moderate food poisoning can be managed at home. If your symptoms are mild then start by eating bland foods with little to no fat so that they are easily digested. Spicy or fatty foods can irritate the stomach further.
Avoid taking dairy products such as milk until you feel better. Try to avoid alcohol and caffeine as much as you can.
Have foods like rice, crackers, and bananas. Eat yogurt as much as you can because yogurt has probiotics that can help fight off pathogenic bacteria. Yogurt is also good for the stomach.
Increase fiber intake in your diet so that the food is easily digested without putting the already upset stomach under more stress.
Take vitamin C supplements or foods rich in vitamin C since vitamin C can help boost immunity. Strong immunity will help your body get rid of harmful pathogens naturally.
Since diarrhea and vomiting can make you lose a lot of water and leave you dehydrated, it is essential to keep drinking water. You can also take fruit juices or chicken broth to maintain adequate water levels inside your body. You can also buy oral rehydration solutions from a pharmacy and drink them.
However, if the symptoms are severe such that the diarrhea lasts for more than 3 days and you have high fever, or if you experience profuse vomiting that can lead to dehydration, then it is advised that you go to the hospital. The doctors will stabilize the electrolyte balance and give you all the medicines needed.
A high fever may indicate a strong infection for which antibiotics may be necessary.
Other FAQs about Meat that you may be interested in.
Can you freeze smoked brisket?
How Long to Cook Frozen Meatballs in Instant Pot
Conclusion
In this brief article, we answered the question “How long does food poisoning from meat last?”, and told you how to properly store cooked meat. We also told you what food poisoning is and how to manage it.
Citations
