At Vivo Pharmacy, we regularly help travellers prepare for exciting trips abroad, including visits to beautiful destinations like Bali. While Bali is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious food, it is also a place where many visitors experience Bali belly, a common term used to describe traveller’s diarrhoea caused by consuming contaminated food or water.

As a trusted Bristol travel clinic, we provide expert advice and vaccinations to keep you healthy and safe while travelling. If you are heading to Bali, understanding what foods and drinks to avoid can significantly reduce your risk of falling ill. In this guide, we explore the top ten high-risk items and share practical tips to help you enjoy your holiday without discomfort.

1. Tap Water and Untreated Ice

One of the most common causes of Bali belly is drinking untreated tap water. The local water supply may contain bacteria, parasites, and viruses that can cause stomach infections. Even if the water looks clear, it is safest to stick to sealed bottled water or water that has been boiled or properly filtered.

Ice cubes can also be risky because they are often made from untreated water. Always check whether ice has been made from safe, filtered water, or avoid it altogether to reduce the chance of contamination.

2. Raw Salads and Unwashed Vegetables

Fresh salads and raw vegetables may seem like a healthy choice, but they can be washed in contaminated water, making them a common trigger for Bali belly. Lettuce, herbs, and other leafy greens are especially prone to carrying harmful bacteria.

If you want to enjoy vegetables, choose cooked dishes instead. High temperatures kill most germs, making hot, freshly prepared meals the safest option when eating out.

3. Street Food That Is Not Cooked Fresh

Bali’s street food scene is vibrant and tempting, but not all vendors follow the same hygiene standards. Food that has been left sitting out or is reheated multiple times can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria.

If you want to enjoy local street food, choose vendors who prepare and cook food fresh in front of you. Look for busy stalls with high turnover, as this usually indicates better food quality and safety.

4. Unpasteurised Juices and Smoothies

Fruit juices and smoothies can be refreshing in Bali’s warm climate, but many are made using unpasteurised ingredients or blended with untreated ice and water. This can increase your risk of consuming harmful bacteria and lead to Bali belly.

To stay safe, choose drinks made from sealed bottled water or buy whole fruit and peel it yourself. Many reputable cafés and restaurants cater to tourists and use safe water, but it is always best to double-check before ordering.

5. Raw or Undercooked Seafood

Bali is famous for its seafood dishes, but eating raw or undercooked seafood significantly raises your risk of food poisoning. Oysters, prawns, and sushi-grade fish may be contaminated if not stored and prepared correctly.

If you want to enjoy seafood, choose restaurants with good hygiene practices and opt for dishes that are thoroughly cooked. Hot grilled fish or prawns are generally safer than raw options.

6. Buffet-Style Foods

Buffets may look appealing, but they often involve food sitting out for long periods at room temperature, which allows bacteria to multiply rapidly. This makes buffets one of the most common sources of Bali belly among travellers.

If you are unsure how long the food has been sitting out, it is safer to choose freshly prepared meals served hot. When possible, opt for smaller local restaurants where dishes are made to order.

7. Dairy Products That Are Not Refrigerated

Milk, cheese, and yoghurt can spoil quickly in hot climates like Bali, especially if they are not stored properly. Consuming dairy products that have been left out of refrigeration can lead to digestive issues and stomach infections.

Stick to pasteurised dairy products from reputable establishments and avoid buying dairy items from street vendors or markets where proper storage may not be guaranteed.

8. Undercooked Meat and Poultry

Undercooked meat and poultry can harbour harmful bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli, both of which are common causes of Bali belly. Avoid eating meat that is pink or cold in the middle and make sure it has been cooked all the way through.

Choosing busy, well-reviewed restaurants is a safer option, as these establishments are more likely to follow proper food safety and cooking practices.

9. Tap-Washed Fruit

Fresh fruit can be a healthy choice, but when it has been washed in untreated tap water, it carries the same risks as raw salads and vegetables. Apples, grapes, and other fruits that cannot be peeled are particularly high-risk.

Opt for fruits with thick skins, such as bananas, oranges, or mangoes, and peel them yourself before eating. This reduces the chance of ingesting contaminated water or bacteria.

10. Drinks from Unhygienic Sources

While Bali offers many refreshing drinks, including coconut water and iced teas, you should be cautious when buying from roadside stalls or markets where hygiene may be poor. Drinks served in unclean containers or mixed with untreated water can easily lead to Bali belly.

Stick to bottled drinks from reputable brands and cafés where you can trust their preparation practices. When in doubt, choose sealed beverages to stay safe.

Protecting Yourself Before You Travel

Avoiding certain foods and drinks is one of the best ways to prevent Bali belly, but preparing before you travel is just as important. At Vivo Pharmacy, our Bristol travel clinic provides expert advice and vaccinations to help you stay healthy abroad.

For Bali and other parts of Southeast Asia, vaccines such as typhoid and hepatitis A are recommended, as they protect against food- and water-borne illnesses. During your consultation, we review your itinerary, discuss your health needs, and prepare a personalised plan to minimise your risk of illness.

Book Your Travel Health Consultation Today

Bali is an incredible destination, but preventing Bali belly is key to making the most of your holiday. By avoiding high-risk foods and drinks, practising good hygiene, and getting the right travel health advice before you go, you can enjoy your trip with confidence.

Contact us to book your consultation today at Vivo Pharmacy’s Bristol travel clinic and let our team help you prepare for safe and healthy travels. With the right support, you can reduce your risk of illness and make the most of your time in Bali.

This blog was written on behalf of Vivo Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.