Drink Safe Water: Tap water in Tanzania isn’t always safe for consumption, so it’s best to stick to bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re certain it was made with purified water, and use bottled water even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.

​Choose Reputable Vendors: While street food is a significant part of Tanzanian cuisine, make sure to buy from vendors with high customer turnover, as this often means food is fresh. Look for clean preparation areas, and avoid food that’s been sitting out, especially if it’s uncovered or exposed to the sun.

Inspect Meat Dishes: Meat in dishes like mishkaki (skewers) and nyama choma (grilled meat) should be fully cooked to avoid any foodborne illnesses. Avoid dishes with meat that’s been undercooked or appears to have been left out for long periods, as this could increase your risk of foodborne bacteria.

Be Aware of Spicy Foods: Tanzanian cuisine includes some spicy dishes, so if you’re sensitive to spice, ask about the spice level before ordering. Some street foods, especially in Zanzibar, may have a high level of chili or pepper, so request milder options if needed.

Practice Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently or carry hand sanitizer, as hand-to-mouth contact is common when eating Tanzanian foods like ugali or mishkaki. Many restaurants offer handwashing stations, but hand sanitizer can be helpful, especially if you’re eating on the go.

Avoid Excessive Seafood Away from the Coast: If you’re far from the coast, seafood might not be as fresh due to transportation time. Stick to seafood dishes in coastal areas like Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, where it’s more likely to be fresh.

Limit Dairy Products: Fresh dairy isn’t always pasteurized in Tanzania, so if you have a sensitive stomach, avoid unpasteurized milk, fresh cream, or homemade cheeses unless you’re certain of their safety.