15 Foods You Should Stay Away From at Parties

It’s party time! Parties are a time for celebration, but not all foods on the buffet table are created equal. Some party staples pose health risks due to improper handling, while others can pack a caloric punch that could sabotage your goals.

Here are 15 foods you should skip at your next party and why they’re worth staying clear of.

Raw Meats and Fish

While sushi and carpaccio may seem sophisticated, raw meats and fish carry the risk of foodborne illnesses. These dishes can be breeding grounds for bacteria like salmonella and listeria, especially if left out at room temperature for too long. Avoiding these items is safer unless you implicitly trust the host’s food-handling practices. Stick with cooked options to enjoy the party without a side of stomach trouble.

Mixed Nuts

Mixed nuts may look harmless, but they can spell trouble for guests with nut allergies. Even for those without allergies, it’s hard to tell how long they’ve been sitting out or who has handled them. Oils from nuts can go rancid, especially in warm party settings.

Brie

This creamy cheese is a favorite at holiday parties, but it’s often served at room temperature for hours. When brie isn’t stored correctly, it becomes a hotbed for harmful bacteria like listeria. Additionally, its high-fat content means it’s far from diet-friendly. If you can’t resist cheese, go for harder varieties that are safer and lower in fat.

Dips

From creamy spinach to cheesy queso, dips are a party favorite—but they’re also a bacterial playground. Double-dipping is more common than people admit, spreading germs with every bite. Many dips contain calorie-laden ingredients like sour cream, mayonnaise, or cream cheese. Spoon a small portion onto your plate instead of dipping directly to play it safe.

Fruitcake

This traditional dessert may look festive, but it’s often loaded with sugar, candied fruit, and alcohol. Its dense texture makes it deceptively high in calories and hard to stop at just one slice. Additionally, fruitcakes are sometimes stored for months or even years, raising questions about their freshness. A fresh fruit platter is a lighter and safer alternative.

Crabcakes

Crabcakes can be a delicious treat, but they’re often fried and packed with high-calorie fillers like breadcrumbs and mayonnaise. Crabcakes can harbor bacteria that lead to food poisoning if not prepared or stored correctly. Many recipes also include shellfish, a common allergen, which could spell disaster for sensitive guests. If you’re craving seafood, choose baked or steamed options.

Meatballs

Meatballs are a calorie bomb disguised as a party snack. They’re often drenched in rich sauces and packed with saturated fat and sodium. If left sitting out for hours, they can also become a breeding ground for bacteria. Consider skipping them or eating just one to keep your intake in check.

Pigs in a Blanket

This bite-sized snack is a party staple, but don’t let its size fool you. The pastry wrapping and processed sausage inside make it high in calories, fat, and sodium. These are also prone to being undercooked in large batches, which can lead to food safety concerns. If you’re looking for something similar, choose a leaner protein.

Deviled Eggs

While delicious, deviled eggs are a risky choice for several reasons. Eggs are highly perishable, and the creamy filling made with mayonnaise can spoil quickly if left out. Additionally, they’re calorie-dense for their size, making it easy to overindulge. If you see deviled eggs on the table, it’s best to skip them unless they’ve been kept chilled.

Shellfish

Shellfish like shrimp or oysters are often served raw or undercooked, making them a high-risk item at parties. Improper storage can lead to bacteria growth, causing illnesses like norovirus. For those with seafood allergies, cross-contamination can also be a significant concern. Cooked and chilled alternatives are safer bets if you’re craving seafood.

Condiments in Open Containers

Open containers of condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise can harbor germs, especially if multiple people are dipping into them. These condiments also tend to be calorie-dense, so they can add up quickly without you realizing it. Avoiding them altogether is better unless you know they’ve been appropriately handled. Look for single-serving packets instead.

Fondue

Whether chocolate or cheese, Fondue is a tempting party offering—but it’s best avoided. Shared dipping utensils and open-air pots make it a hotspot for bacteria. Additionally, fondue sauces are usually calorie-dense, meaning it’s easy to overindulge. If you can’t resist, use a fresh utensil for every dip.

Frozen Cocktails

Frozen cocktails like margaritas and daiquiris may seem festive, but they’re packed with sugar and empty calories. Their high sugar content can lead to energy crashes, especially if you’ve been drinking alcohol. Frozen drinks can be made with low-quality mixers containing artificial ingredients or preservatives. Stick to lighter choices like wine or a spritzer to keep your calorie count in check.

Eggnog

This holiday classic is a caloric heavyweight thanks to its rich ingredients like cream, sugar, and eggs. Many recipes also include alcohol, adding even more calories to the mix. Because eggnog contains raw eggs, you could risk salmonella poisoning if not prepared safely. Consider swapping it for a lighter holiday drink like mulled cider.

Cookies

Cookies are a party dessert staple, often loaded with sugar, butter, and refined flour. Eating more than you intend is easy, especially with so many tempting varieties on display. Additionally, cookies are rarely served fresh and may have been sitting out for hours, losing their texture and flavor. If you must have something sweet, have smaller portions or choose a healthier dessert alternative.

 

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If you’re looking for guilt-free snacks or meals, check out this list of 15 healthy foods that taste so good they almost feel like a cheat.

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