When people gather for holiday meals, food safety is a key concern, according to Mark Pimentel, MD, executive director of the Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program at Cedars-Sinai. The period from Thanksgiving through New Year’s is one of the riskiest times for foodborne illness due to large gatherings and leftovers.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 48 million Americans become ill from foodborne diseases each year, leading to approximately 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths.
Pimentel explained that contamination with bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella or Campylobacter jejuni remains a common cause of food poisoning. “Improper handling remains a major source of contamination. Foods left out for hours—common during buffets and large gatherings—create ideal conditions for bacterial growth,” he said.
Albert Abayev, RD, a clinical dietitian at Cedars-Sinai who works with patients undergoing weight loss surgery and general surgery, added that many holiday-related food safety issues are linked to outdated traditions or rushed environments. He noted problems such as leaving food out on counters for long periods, undercooked poultry or stuffing, overcrowded refrigerators, thawing meats on the counter and multitasking that can lead to cross contamination.
Symptoms of food poisoning do not always appear right away. “Certain infections may take up to 48 hours to incubate. When determining the likely source, consider foods eaten in the prior two days and whether others who shared them also became ill,” Pimentel said.
Most cases resolve within a few days but some bacteria can cause symptoms lasting longer. “E. coli often clears quickly, while Salmonella and Campylobacter may last a week or longer,” Pimentel stated. While foodborne illness itself is not contagious like a virus, it can be spread if an infected person prepares meals for others.
Abayev emphasized that allowing food to sit at room temperature too long is one of the most common mistakes during holiday cooking: “Once food has been out for more than two hours, bacteria grow quickly.” He recommended ensuring all dishes reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit and warned against cross contamination and improper thawing.
Relying on smell or appearance is not enough when judging leftovers. “Many harmful bacteria do not alter a food’s odor or color,” Abayev said. Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours of serving and used within three to four days; reheating should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
People with digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease are at higher risk from contaminated foods. Pimentel advised careful handling and thorough cooking for these individuals because infection can worsen their symptoms.
Abayev noted that those using GLP-1 medications for weight management may experience slower stomach emptying: “Smaller portions, slower eating, prioritizing protein and staying upright after meals can help.” Because their digestion is slower, contaminated foods could result in stronger symptoms.
For recovery from food poisoning, Pimentel recommended hydration with water or electrolyte drinks along with bland foods like toast or rice once symptoms improve. Medical care should be sought if symptoms persist beyond several days or if there are signs such as high fever or blood in the stool.
Produce has become an increasing concern this year due to improved monitoring reducing meat contamination but field conditions affecting vegetables. “Field conditions may limit workers’ access to proper hygiene, and many vegetables are eaten raw,” Pimentel explained.
Abayev summarized the main advice: “Temperature control is the foundation of food safety. Hot foods should stay hot, cold foods should stay cold and leftovers should be refrigerated promptly.”
Pimentel concluded: “Better safe than sorry; no one wants a side of food poisoning with their holiday meal.”
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1902 and led by President Thomas M. Priselac,the hospital admitted over 50,000 patients in 2022.
