Foods to Stay Away From on Cruises
Ready to eat your way through the buffet?
Hold up, before you dive in, there are a few foods that could make your cruise a lot less enjoyable. I get it, everything looks tempting, but some of these dishes might just spoil your vacation.
Let’s get real about the ones you might want to avoid. Are you in?
1. Egg-based Sauces
Think that creamy hollandaise sauce is calling your name? Here’s the deal, egg-based sauces are a gamble.
If they’re not prepared or stored right, they could give you more than just a bellyache. The key here is freshness.
Ask questions, don’t just dive in. When in doubt, skip it.
2. Rare Meats
If you’re a fan of rare meats, you might want to reconsider your choice on a cruise. Cooking methods onboard can vary, and rare meats might not reach the safe temperature.
Are you ready to risk it? It’s smarter to go for well-done to avoid any potential health issues. You can always ask the crew about their cooking standards.
It’s your health, don’t compromise it.
3. Soft-serve Ice Cream
Tempted by that soft-serve machine?
Here’s a fun fact, if the machine isn’t cleaned properly, you’re in for a stomach surprise. The last thing you want is a tummy ache because someone forgot to scrub the machine.
Keep an eye on the cleanliness, or better yet, go for the pre-packaged stuff. Is it worth the risk?
4. Buffet Sushi
Sushi on a cruise? It sounds good, but let me warn you, raw fish needs precise temperatures.
You won’t always get that from a buffet. If that sushi’s been sitting around, your stomach might regret it. Play it safe, go for cooked options and ask the crew about the freshness.
Can you really trust a cruise buffet with sushi?
5. Unpasteurized Dairy Products
When it comes to dairy, unpasteurized products are a no-go on cruises. Though they might be offered as gourmet, they pose health risks.
Are they truly worth it? Unpasteurized items can harbor harmful bacteria. It’s best to choose pasteurized alternatives. How you decide can impact your cruise experience. Did I mention that many travelers avoid these products?
No one wants to deal with digestive issues while at sea. So, are you willing to take that chance?
6. Mystery Meat Loaf
Mystery Meat Loaf, need I say more?
The last thing you want to wonder about is what’s inside that slice. It could be anything. For those with sensitive stomachs, this dish could lead to more discomfort than satisfaction.
What’s really in that loaf? Trust me, it’s better to skip it and ask the staff about other options.
7. Glittering Goldfish Soup
Goldfish soup, shimmering with edible glitter, looks like something out of a fairytale.
But here’s the truth, it’s all style with little substance. That glitter? It might not sit well with everyone. For some, it could lead to digestive discomfort.
Do you really want to risk it just for the sparkles?
8. Cactus Leaf Salad
Cactus leaf salad, sounds adventurous, right? Sure, it’s crunchy and fresh, but its texture isn’t for everyone.
Although intriguing, the texture may not please all palates. Some find it too fibrous or difficult to chew. The slime it produces can be off-putting.
If you want to stay on the safe side, stick to classic salads like lettuce or spinach. How daring are you really feeling?
9. Alien Fruit Salad
This isn’t your typical fruit salad.
Some of those fruits, like durian, smell worse than they taste. The risk of allergic reactions or digestive issues is also higher when consuming unfamiliar produce.
When on a cruise, opt for familiar, seasonal fruits you can identify, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable snack time.
10. Pickled Jellyfish Tacos
Imagine the allure of a fusion dish gone awry. Pickled jellyfish tacos might sound intriguing, but they’re a textural enigma.
The jellyfish, often chewy and marinated in exotic spices, can be tough for many palates. Add pickled vegetables, and the tanginess can overwhelm. Aboard a cruise, this dish may not be the best for those with sensitive stomachs.
While adventurous foodies might relish the challenge, caution is advised for most. If you dare, pair with something familiar as a safety net. Ultimately, enjoy the cruise’s sights and sounds over uncharted culinary waters.
11. Volcanic Lava Cake
Dessert should be sweet, right? Not this time.
Volcanic Lava Cake is a fiery treat with unexpected chili heat. If you’re not a fan of spicy sweets, this one might throw off your vacation vibe.
How about keeping it simple with a classic dessert and saving the spicy experiment for another time? Don’t let a molten cake ruin your sweet escape!