Fruits are often seen as nature’s healthiest gifts—rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. But not all fruits are as clean and safe as they appear. If not properly handled or washed, some fruits can become breeding grounds for parasites and harmful microorganisms that can pose serious health risks.

Here are 3 commonly consumed fruits that are more likely to carry parasites, especially when eaten raw or unwashed — and what you can do to protect yourself.

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1. Longan and Lychee

These tropical fruits are sweet, juicy, and widely loved, but their rough, uneven skins often trap dirt, bacteria, and parasite eggs—especially when harvested from trees near stagnant water or animal waste.

If not thoroughly cleaned, eating them can result in:

• Stomach cramps

• Nausea

• Mild food poisoning symptoms

In some severe cases, especially with children, improper consumption of unripe lychees has been linked to acute toxic encephalopathy due to a compound called hypoglycin A.

Safety tip: Wash thoroughly with saltwater or a fruit-cleaning solution before peeling, and avoid consuming unripe fruits.

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2. Guava

Guavas are rich in fiber and vitamin C, but they’re also a common host for fruit fly larvae and tiny parasites—especially if the skin is broken or bruised. The inside of overripe or poorly stored guava may contain worm-like larvae that are invisible to the naked eye at first glance.

Potential symptoms of consuming infected guava include:

• Abdominal discomfort

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Parasitic infections over time

Safety tip: Avoid guavas with soft spots or holes. Cut open and inspect before eating, and soak in saltwater to help remove hidden insects.

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3. Strawberries

Strawberries grow close to the ground and are often sprayed with pesticides. Their porous surface and tiny seeds can trap not just chemicals, but also parasites, bacteria, and dirt, especially if grown in unsanitary conditions.

Unwashed strawberries may carry parasites like Cyclospora cayetanensis, which can cause:

• Severe diarrhea

• Bloating

• Foodborne illness

Safety tip: Rinse strawberries under running water and soak in diluted vinegar or saltwater for several minutes to remove residues and parasites.