In light of an E. coli outbreak that's claimed six lives in Germany and sickened hundreds more throughout Europe, Germany's Ministry of Health is advising citizens to avoid eating raw produce - especially cucumbers, lettuce and tomatoes - and make sure that all vegetables are cooked to 70°C (158°F). Freezing food does not reliably kill the E. coli bacteria.

Experts are also suggesting that people frequently wash their hands, disinfect working surfaces and utensils and thoroughly clean any vegetables they plan on consuming.

The source of the outbreak has yet to be traced, but authorities are investigating a shipment of organic cucumbers originating from Spain, packaged in Germany, and distributed to countries including Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg and Spain.

Read – E. coli infections kill 6, sicken hundreds in Germany, officials say and learn to grown your own lettuce at home and Food Poisoning 101