Consider it as risky as eating raw eggs.
We all remember the days when Grandma would entertain the grandkids by making Play-Doh from scratch.
It was fun to mold and sculpt and, according to younger siblings everywhere, delicious to eat.
Credit:Nungning20 via Getty Images
The same goes for all those bites ofcookie doughsnuck during baking sessions.
But can you eat raw flour?
People just don’t know that eating raw flour isn’t safe.
Here’s what you better know.
But while the risk is low, it’s very real.
Why Is Raw Flour Unsafe?
The processing the plants go through to convert from grain to flour doesn’t kill bacteria.
And unlike lettuce or carrots, it’s possible for you to’t wash flour to clean it.
Heating it before adding it to a recipe will kill any bacteria.
To heat-treat flour, place the flour in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for about one minute.
This should bring the flour to 165oF and should kill any bacteria that could cause food-borne illnesses.
Cool completely before using.
But is there any hope for raw cookie dough lovers?
Yes, in fact, there is.
However, the dough must be stored in an airtight container and chilled.
What Flours Are Safe To Eat Raw?
Any flour made from raw grains should not be eaten raw.
Nut flours, like almond flour, and coconut flour are generally safe to eat raw.
U.S. Food & Drug Administration.Flour Is a Raw Food and Other Safety Facts.
Pappas S.Raw Food Warning: Why Uncooked Flour Can Make You Sick.
July 8, 2016.
2016 E. coli Outbreak Linked to Flour.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Published September 29, 2016.
Studies show consumers need more flour safety education.
January 12, 2022.
Centers for Disease Control.Foods That Can Cause Food Poisoning.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Outbreaks ofE.
Centers for Disease Control.Raw Flour and Dough.
