Food safety during and shortly after receiving cancer therapy

Cancer therapy can temporarily weaken immune defenses, making foodborne infections more consequential during treatment and recovery. The level of risk varies with the treatment, blood counts, and other medical factors.

Follow the oncology team’s instructions for food safety. In general, avoid unpasteurized foods and raw or undercooked animal products, keep kitchen equipment clean, and observe safe refrigeration and cooking temperatures. Ask the care team when additional precautions can be relaxed.

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

FoodSafety.gov — People with Weakened Immune Systems

Food handling advice for people with reduced immune defenses.

FDA — People at Risk of Foodborne Illness

Food safety principles for medically susceptible individuals.

FoodSafety.gov — Safe Minimum Internal Temperatures

Cooking temperatures for common animal foods.

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