Yes, a milkshake can cause food poisoning if made with contaminated ingredients or improperly stored dairy products.
Milkshakes are a beloved treat, but contaminated ingredients or improper handling can turn them into a food safety hazard. Recent outbreaks prove this danger is very real.
How Milkshakes Can Become Contaminated
Several factors make milkshakes potential carriers of foodborne illnesses:
Dairy Product Risks
Milk, ice cream, and cream are perfect breeding grounds for bacteria if not stored properly. The 2023 Washington listeria outbreak that killed three people was traced to uncleaned ice cream machines at a burger chain.
Raw Egg Dangers
Some recipes use raw eggs for richness. Raw eggs may contain salmonella – a leading cause of food poisoning. Always use pasteurized eggs if adding them to shakes.
Cross-Contamination
Shared equipment like blenders or scoopers can transfer bacteria if not cleaned between uses. The best blender for milkshakes should have removable parts for thorough cleaning.
| Bacteria | Common Sources | Onset Time |
|---|---|---|
| Listeria | Unpasteurized dairy, contaminated equipment | 3-70 days |
| Salmonella | Raw eggs, contaminated dairy | 6-72 hours |
| E. coli | Contaminated milk, unclean produce | 1-10 days |
Recognizing Milkshake Food Poisoning
Symptoms vary by contaminant but often include:
- Nausea and vomiting (within hours for staph, days for listeria)
- Watery or bloody diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps and pain
- Fever and chills
According to CDC reports, listeria is particularly dangerous for pregnant women, causing miscarriage in about 20% of cases.
High-Risk Groups
Some people are more vulnerable to severe illness:
- Pregnant women (20x more likely to get listeriosis)
- Adults over 65
- People with weakened immune systems
- Young children
Preventing Milkshake-Related Illness
At Restaurants
Ask about:
- How often shake machines are cleaned (should be daily)
- Whether they use pasteurized dairy
- If raw eggs are used in recipes
At Home
Follow these safety steps:
- Use only pasteurized dairy products
- Clean your blender thoroughly after each use
- Store ingredients at proper temperatures
- Consume shakes immediately or refrigerate below 40°F
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact a doctor if you experience:
- Blood in stool or vomit
- Dehydration symptoms (dizziness, dry mouth)
- Fever over 101.5°F
- Symptoms lasting more than 3 days
For those with compromised immunity, seek help immediately at first signs of illness.
Alternatives for Sensitive Stomachs
If dairy causes issues, try:
- Plant-based milks (almond, oat, soy)
- Pasteurized egg substitutes
- Fruit-based smoothies instead of creamy shakes
Remember that proper food handling is key to enjoying milkshakes safely. When in doubt, throw it out – no treat is worth risking your health.
