What Happens If You Accidentally Bite Raw Pig Kidney?

Pig kidneys

I accidentally bit into raw pig kidneys, but I spat it out.
After that, I cooked it before eating.
What could happen?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/24

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

It should still be safe; just monitor it.

Reply Date: 2023/10/24

More Info

Accidentally biting into raw pig kidney can understandably raise concerns about food safety and potential health risks. However, if you promptly expelled the raw kidney from your mouth and subsequently cooked it before consuming, the risks are significantly minimized.

Raw pork, including organs like kidneys, can harbor pathogens such as bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli) and parasites (e.g., Trichinella). These pathogens can lead to foodborne illnesses, which may manifest as symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. The severity of these symptoms can vary based on the individual's health, the amount of contaminated food ingested, and the specific pathogen involved.

In your case, since you did not swallow the raw kidney and cooked it before eating, the cooking process would have effectively killed most harmful bacteria and parasites, assuming it was cooked to a safe internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) followed by a three-minute rest time. This guideline helps ensure that any pathogens present are eliminated.

It's also important to note that if you experience any unusual symptoms after consuming the cooked kidney, such as gastrointestinal distress or fever, you should seek medical attention. Monitoring your health for the next few days is advisable, as some foodborne illnesses can take time to manifest.

In terms of food safety practices, always ensure that raw meat and organ meats are handled with care. This includes washing hands, utensils, and surfaces that come into contact with raw meat to prevent cross-contamination. Additionally, it's crucial to store raw meats at appropriate temperatures and to cook them thoroughly before consumption.

In summary, since you expelled the raw kidney and cooked it before eating, the likelihood of experiencing adverse health effects is low. However, remain vigilant for any symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns or experience any health issues following the incident.

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