The Green That Protects Your Tummy

Any fan of Mexican food is familiar with cilantro. But here’s something you may not know about it: The pungent green could fend off gut-cramping illness.

Potent compounds in cilantro appear to be quite a match against a strain of salmonella common in food poisoning.

Bacteria Busters

When salmonella invades your gastrointestinal
tract . . . well, we won’t go into graphic detail. Suffice it to say that it can quickly spoil a summer outing! But chopping some cilantro into your pool-party salsa just might keep the dip safer, thanks to the strong antibacterial action of substances in the green. And add extra onions to your salsa for good measure. They help battle salmonella, too. (Video: Get tips on chopping onions without the tears.)

Food That’s Fit to Eat
Keep your picnic and barbecue foods from turning on you later with these other tips:

• Don’t go by looks. Ground beef can be undercooked even if it’s brown.
• Wash, wash, and wash again. Wash your hands before you cook, wash fresh produce before preparing, and wash the food prep area when you’re done. And use plain soap and water.
• Know your bugs. Check out this page to find out what grows where -- and how to avoid it.