Can You Eat Steak Raw? The Real Truth

Steak is one of the most popular dishes in the world and is enjoyed in a variety of ways, from medium-rare to well-done. However, some people wonder if it's safe to eat steak raw. While it may seem unusual to consume raw meat, many cultures have been doing it for centuries. In this article, we'll explore the truth about eating steak raw and what you need to know to make an informed decision if you ever want to try it yourself.

Can People Eat Raw Beef?

When it comes to enjoying a juicy, flavorful steak, some people prefer to consume it raw rather than cooked. But, is it safe to eat raw beef?

If you’re a fan of steak tartare, you already know that raw beef can be delicious when prepared correctly. However, it’s important to note that not all beef is created equal, and consuming raw beef can be extremely harmful if it’s not of high quality and prepared properly. Ground beef from the grocery store may contain various unknown parts of a whole herd of cows and could potentially contain harmful bacteria if consumed raw.

But what about ordering a raw steak from your favorite restaurant?

While some may be hesitant to do so, reputable steakhouses that accept raw steak orders likely use only high-quality beef from a known source. Their professional chefs have been trained to handle the meat properly, minimizing the risk of contamination. However, it's important to note that consuming raw beef always carries some level of risk, so it's essential to take proper precautions and only consume raw beef from reputable sources.

How to Prepare and Eat Raw Beef Safely

Raw beef, like raw chicken and pork, can be risky to consume and may contain harmful bacteria. Although it's safer than raw chicken or pork, it's still not completely safe to eat.

Eating raw steak can lead to infections such as listeriosis, salmonellosis, and E. Coli poisoning. The only way to ensure that most of the unsafe bacteria are killed is by cooking beef to a minimum internal temperature of 160°F  and letting it rest for a few minutes.

However, if you insist on eating raw meat, sourcing your beef carefully is crucial. You can order meat online from a trusted source like Wagyuman or go to your local butcher who knows the origin of every slab of beef he sells. It's also a good idea to buy whole slabs of beef and cut them yourself or watch the butcher do it to ensure the meat is from the same animal.

Once you bring your raw steak home, put it right in the freezer or fridge if you're not going to eat it immediately. Store your steak covered, away from other foods, and out of the way of anything that could drip on it. Make sure your refrigerator is set at 40°F or below to keep the steak fresh and cold.

Lastly, know the risks of eating raw beef before you ever try it! It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your and your family's health.

If you're looking for fully trusted, safe beef, Wagyuman is the perfect place to start. We import genuine premium wagyu beef from Japan, which undergoes rigorous supply chain monitoring to ensure its safety and quality. With Wagyuman, you can rest assured you're getting only the best, highest-quality beef available, which has been carefully handled and prepared every step of the way.