If you eat raw gammon will it harm you?

Eating raw or uncooked gammon can be harmful and is not recommended. Gammon is a cured meat product typically made from pork leg, and like other pork products, it can carry harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and Trichinella spiralis. These bacteria can cause foodborne illnesses, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fever.

Consuming raw or undercooked pork can increase the risk of contracting these illnesses. While the curing process helps to preserve gammon and reduce the risk of bacterial growth, it does not eliminate bacteria entirely. Therefore, it's important to cook gammon thoroughly before consumption.

To ensure safety, gammon should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) as measured by a food thermometer. This temperature helps to kill harmful bacteria and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. Always follow recommended cooking instructions provided on the packaging or from reliable sources.

If you have concerns about the safety of consuming raw gammon or other pork products, it's best to err on the side of caution and cook them thoroughly before eating.