what happens if you eat undercooked turkey sausage 2

The Dangers and Effects of Eating Undercooked Turkey Sausage

Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative to pork and beef sausage, but it still requires thorough cooking to eliminate foodborne illnesses. Consuming undercooked turkey sausage puts you at risk of bacterial contamination. So what exactly happens if you eat turkey sausage that isn’t fully cooked?

Why Turkey Sausage Can Be Risky

Raw turkey sausage can appear fully cooked since it’s made from white meat. However, any pink interior color indicates the meat is undercooked. Potential bacteria that could be present include:

• Salmonella – Causes diarrhea fever. and stomach cramps

• E. coli – Results in severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting

• Listeria – Dangerous for pregnant women, elderly, and those with weak immune systems

• Campylobacter – Leads to diarrhea, cramping, nausea, and fever

Grinding introduces bacteria from the surface into the interior. And there is increased surface area for bacteria to grow on.

Symptoms from Consuming Undercooked Turkey Sausage

If undercooked turkey sausage contains harmful bacteria, you may experience:

• Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea, possibly bloody
• Fever and chills
• Fatigue and muscle aches
• Dehydration

Symptoms typically start 12-72 hours after ingesting contaminated meat. Most cases cause temporary food poisoning lasting 5-7 days. But certain dangerous strains can result in severe dehydration, kidney failure, paralysis, seizures, and even death in rare cases.

Groups Most Susceptible to Foodborne Illness

While undercooked turkey sausage can sicken anyone, some groups are more likely to develop severe or life-threatening complications:

• Young children
• Older adults
• Pregnant women
• Those with weakened immune systems
• People taking medicines that reduce stomach acid
• Those with chronic diseases like diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer

These high risk groups should take extra care to fully cook turkey sausage to safe internal temperatures.

What to Do if You Get Sick

If you suspect illness from undercooked turkey sausage, take these steps:

• Drink fluids to prevent dehydration
• Get ample rest
• Monitor fever
• Take over-the-counter medications for diarrhea, pain, and nausea
• Seek medical help if symptoms persist or worsen

Contact your doctor promptly if you have signs of dehydration, bloody stools, high fever, or severe vomiting.

Treating Food Poisoning from Undercooked Turkey Sausage

Most mild cases can be managed at home with:

• Fluids – Sip water, broths, sports drinks, or electrolyte beverages

• Bland diet – Eat toast, rice, bananas, and crackers

• Probiotics – Consume yogurt and supplements to restore gut bacteria

• Rest – Sleep and take it easy as much as possible

• Medications – Use over-the-counter meds for diarrhea, nausea, and cramps

See your doctor if worrying symptoms appear, like dehydration or bloody stools, which could indicate a serious illness. IV fluids, hospitalization, or antibiotics may be necessary.

Avoiding Foodborne Illness from Turkey Sausage

You can stay safe by:

• Cooking to 165°F internally, verified with a food thermometer

• Preventing cross-contamination with separate cutting boards, plates, and utensils

• Refrigerating promptly and cooking within 1-2 days

• Thawing frozen sausage in the fridge, not at room temperature

• Washing hands and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling raw turkey

As long as proper safety steps are taken, turkey sausage is perfectly fine to enjoy thanks to its lean protein and flavor. Just remember to always cook it thoroughly and practice careful handling. Consuming it undercooked does involve risks, but they can be prevented with diligent kitchen habits.