Buffets Are Making a Comeback, But So Are the Health Risks—Here Are 5 Things to Keep in Mind

The pandemic might have seemed like the end for all-you-can-eat buffets, but they've made a strong return. With health restrictions now lifted, people are flocking back to these popular dining spots, eager to indulge in endless food options at a fixed price. It's a social and financial win, which is why buffets are bouncing back stronger than ever.

Buffets Are Offering More Than Just Food

While this is great news, there are some concerns. Buffets, when you really think about it, can be a bit unsettling. Large quantities of food are being shared by dozens—or even hundreds—of guests, all using the same serving utensils and getting close to the same dishes. This creates opportunities for germs to spread and hygiene standards to slip. And sometimes, food sits out for too long at unsafe temperatures, increasing the risk of bacterial contamination.

One expert, an infectious disease specialist, has even gone so far as to call buffets 'bacteria breeding grounds,' which might make you rethink that second plate. (Sorry!) According to Allison Agwu, a professor at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, buffets carry significant health risks.

"Buffets are a breeding ground for all sorts of illnesses that can spread through saliva. The biggest bacterial culprits in unsanitary buffet setups are E. coli, salmonella, and listeria—especially in deli meats. When it comes to viruses, norovirus is the one we worry about the most, known for wreaking havoc on entire cruise ships where buffet dining is common."

Sometimes, the biggest threat to buffet safety is the diners themselves. While restaurant staff may be following all the necessary food safety protocols, if guests don't follow basic hygiene and behavior guidelines, it can create risks for everyone.

5 Key Things to Avoid at the Buffet

1. Using the wrong utensil. Always use the designated utensil for each dish, and never use your hands. Ideally, each dish should have its own serving utensil to avoid the temptation to grab one from another station.
2. Reusing plates. Always grab a clean plate and utensils for each new trip to the buffet to avoid transferring germs from your used plate. Children should be supervised when serving themselves.
3. Not washing hands regularly. Consider all the hands touching the serving utensils. It’s a good idea to use hand sanitizer before and after filling your plate, and avoid touching the sneeze guard, which is meant to protect the food from airborne germs.
4. Eating food that has touched a dropped utensil. Never use utensils that have fallen into the food or pick up food that’s been contaminated by them. It’s similar to putting your hand on a public door handle and then eating with it.
5. Consuming raw greens, seafood, or cantaloupe. Be cautious with raw greens like spinach or romaine, which can harbor E. coli. Also, raw seafood like sushi and oysters can pose a risk, and cantaloupe’s skin can carry salmonella. (If you eat cantaloupe, ensure it's properly chilled.) Be wary of lemon slices too, as they can attract bacteria.

Now that we've probably ruined your appetite (sorry about that), maybe it's time to rethink the buffet for your next meal. A sit-down restaurant might save you from a bout of food poisoning, and the peace of mind might be worth the extra cost.