Can Eating Raw Green Onions Lead to Toxoplasmosis? Expert Insights

Hello, doctor! I would like to inquire about issues related to Toxoplasma?

Hello Doctor: Today I stayed at a hotel and ate stir-fried udon noodles from the buffet.
The raw scallions were mixed into the hot udon noodles but were not cooked together.
I realized this afterward! The temperature of the mixture with the raw scallions didn't seem very high.
Is there a risk of contracting toxoplasmosis from eating this? How likely is it to get toxoplasmosis from raw scallions, in your experience? Thank you.

Xiao Ling, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/01

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, generally it won't happen.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/12/01

More Info

Eating raw green onions, or scallions, does raise concerns regarding foodborne illnesses, including Toxoplasmosis, but the risk is relatively low compared to other foods. Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which can be found in undercooked meat, contaminated water, and unwashed fruits and vegetables. The primary concern with green onions is not so much the onions themselves but rather how they are handled and prepared.

1. Understanding Toxoplasmosis: Toxoplasmosis is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems. The parasite can be transmitted through ingestion of oocysts, which are shed in the feces of infected cats. While it is possible for green onions to be contaminated with Toxoplasma if they come into contact with contaminated soil or water, the likelihood is lower than with other foods, especially meats.

2. Risk Factors for Green Onions: The risk of contracting Toxoplasmosis from green onions is generally low, especially if they are sourced from reputable suppliers and washed thoroughly before consumption. However, if the green onions were grown in contaminated soil or irrigated with contaminated water, there is a potential risk. The cooking process can kill the parasite, but since you mentioned that the green onions were only mixed into hot noodles without being cooked, the risk remains.

3. Preventive Measures: To minimize the risk of Toxoplasmosis and other foodborne illnesses, it is essential to wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before consumption. This includes green onions. Additionally, practicing good kitchen hygiene, such as washing hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw foods, can help prevent cross-contamination.

4. Symptoms of Toxoplasmosis: If you were to contract Toxoplasmosis, symptoms might include flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. However, many healthy individuals may not exhibit any symptoms at all. If you experience any unusual symptoms after consuming raw green onions or any other food, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

5. Conclusion: In summary, while there is a theoretical risk of contracting Toxoplasmosis from raw green onions, the actual risk is low, especially if proper food safety practices are followed. If you are concerned about your health or experience any symptoms, it is always best to seek medical advice. Eating a balanced diet and ensuring food safety can help mitigate the risks associated with foodborne illnesses.
In the future, consider cooking green onions or ensuring they are thoroughly washed before consumption to further reduce any potential risks.

Similar Q&A

Pregnancy and Toxoplasmosis: Is Raw Green Onion Safe to Eat?

Hello Dr. Tsao: I apologize for bothering you again, but I have another question. I read online that to avoid Toxoplasma, one should avoid eating raw vegetables. Does this include green onions? I have been avoiding raw vegetables, but I do add raw green onions to hot soups, noodl...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the trematode is not related to eating raw vegetables. Wishing you good health.

Can Pregnant Women Get Toxoplasmosis from Washing Vegetables?

Hello Dr. Lin, I am currently pregnant and mostly cook for myself. The vegetables I buy from the market often have some dirt on them. After washing the vegetables with clean water, I wash my hands but do not use soap before handling food. Could this lead to a risk of contracting ...

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Infection with Toxoplasma gondii typically occurs through the consumption of raw vegetables or by touching the mouth or nasal mucosa after contact with soil without washing hands. It is essential to develop a habit of handwashing. As for whether this particular handwashing was th...

Concerns About Toxoplasmosis from Edible Flowers in Desserts

Hello, doctor. Today, I had a meal out, and there were two fresh flowers and green leaves as decorations on the cake (which came into contact with the cake). I felt embarrassed to ask the server for a new one, so I asked if they had washed the flowers and leaves with edible water...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
I believe that after thorough cleaning with water, and since I did not actually consume the decorative flowers and leaves, the chance of contracting a Toxoplasma gondii infection is minimal. Furthermore, individuals with a normal immune function typically do not exhibit symptoms ...

Understanding Toxoplasmosis in Infants: Symptoms and Risks from Cats

Dear Doctor: What are the symptoms of congenital toxoplasmosis in infants? If there is no proper space separation between the cat and the baby, what effects could this have on the baby? Additionally, if cat hair accidentally gets into the baby's mouth, what could happen? My ...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Hello: The main routes of human infection are through the consumption of undercooked meats (especially lamb and pork), eating raw vegetables, and contact with cat feces. Additionally, Toxoplasma gondii oocysts can survive in moist soil for several months, so contact with soil is ...