Final answer:
Nursing homes must avoid serving raw or undercooked foods to prevent foodborne illnesses in residents, as they are more at risk due to weakened immune systems. Food must be properly cooked and handled to prevent infections from bacteria like Salmonella and Listeria.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nursing homes cannot serve raw or undercooked eggs, meat, or seafood because people living there are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses caused by a variety of pathogens. These pathogens include bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and more. Such bacteria can be present in foods that are typically consumed raw or undercooked, like eggs, poultry, meats, unpasteurized dairy products, and certain seafood like oysters.
Individuals in nursing homes often have weakened immune systems due to age or illness, making them more vulnerable to infections and severe complications from foodborne pathogens. As a result, it is crucial that their food is properly cooked to reduce the risk of illness. Furthermore, proper food handling practices are essential in preventing the spread of bacteria from contaminated foods to other foods or surfaces that may come into contact with vulnerable individuals.