11 Essential Nomad Nutrition Tips for Staying Healthy While Working Abroad

2. Food Safety and Hygiene Protocols

Protecting yourself from foodborne illness starts with simple habits. Wash hands with soap and water before eating and after market visits. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer for situations without a sink. Wipe down dining surfaces with travel-safe disinfectant wipes when eating in shared or unfamiliar spaces. Check vendor hygiene visually: clean preparation areas, covered food, and busy stalls usually indicate frequent turnover. Be cautious with ice and tap water where standards differ; use bottled water or a certified filter for drinking and brushing teeth if recommended. When sampling street food, favor freshly cooked options served hot over pre-prepared items left in open air. For salads and raw produce, wash in filtered water or peel where possible. Introduce new foods gradually to watch for digestive reactions. Follow these protocols and you’ll reduce illness risk while still enjoying local cuisine.