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5 Tips to Avoid Food Poisoning in Vietnam

  • Writer: Curious About Vietnam
    Curious About Vietnam
  • Sep 7
  • 2 min read

Updated: Oct 23

Vietnam’s street food scene might surprise first-time visitors. Open-air kitchens, tiny stools, and less-than-spotless setups can look questionable if you’re used to Western standards. But don’t let that put you off because some of the safest and most delicious meals that you can find in Vietnam, come from these humble spots. Locals eat there every day and know where the food is fresh and reliable.


How to avoid food poisoning in Vietnam


  1. Skip Tap Water

    Always drink bottled water with an intact seal. Avoid ice unless you’re at a reputable hotel or restaurant using purified water. Also avoid using tap water to brush your teeth.

  2. Eat Where & When It’s Busy

    Choose street food stalls or restaurants with a steady stream of locals and avoid eating during off hours like the middle of the afternoon or late at night. 'Busy' means fresher food and safer cooking.

  3. Choose Fresh & Hot Food

    Pick places where food is cooked fresh in front of you and served hot. Avoid anything that’s been sitting out, especially seafood on ice.

  4. Be Cautious of Fresh Fruits & Veggies

    Do your best to avoid salads or raw vegetables that may have been washed with local tap water. Remember: cooked foods are your friend—heat kills most harmful bacteria.

  5. Eat at Places That Specialize in ONE Thing 

    In Vietnam, it is not unusual for the best and most local foods to be served as a stand-alone product, rather than on a menu with all kinds and types of foods. A large menu can lead to produce & proteins sitting around for an extended period of time, often unrefrigerated.


A small Hanoi street food vendor serving up hungry customers
Typical Hanoi Street Food Scene

Keep in mind that some people are more sensitive to unfamiliar food and water, making them more likely to get sick. But by following these simple tips, you can greatly reduce or completely avoid food poisoning while traveling Vietnam. Above all else, I would encourage you to avoid tap water as it is highly likely to be the main contributor to stomach woes in Vietnam.


Also remember that almost every eatery in Vietnam is on Google Maps. If locals often complained of food illness, they would go out of business, just like anywhere else.


More tips, tricks and hacks can be found on my social media account: @curiousaboutvietnam on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & YouTube.


Stay safe out there folks!



 
 
 
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