Canadian,
We know for sure meats are not the same. When you get pork or chicken, it will say it has added salts and water, etc. Plus, who would have ever thought we would get mad cow disease ? They kill off sick cows and then sell it to us. They feed them things that cows were never meant to eat. Sheesh, when did beef become carnivores ?
Then, the meats are irradiated to help kill of bacteria. If meats were done properly, you shouldn't have to irradite the meats. They should be wholesome to begin with.
So, I do feel that since we live in a different environment than years gone by, that just cooking the foods isn't always enough.
I can agree to a certain degree about being germaphobic, but we just are not dealing with the same conditions anymore. I don't take chances with my family, not willingly if I suspect something is unsafe. I don't purposely tempt fate.
The hospital and doctor bills, plus being sick is not worth it to me. I would rather toss a bit of food instead.