> with regard to raw hamburger it
> seems to me the issue is fairly simple -- it's
> probably safe but there is always a small but not
> infitessimally small chance that it will be
> contaminated with something really bad.

Sure.  In the U.S., The Clinton administration required meat processing
facilities to test their product for e. coil 0157:H7.  This measure has
improved the safety of ground beef.

Canada does not have a similar requirement, except when producers export
their product south of the border.

> So those who
> want to can take the chances, and others probably
> prefer to be on the safe side.

Sure.  You're free to choose when feeding yourself.  If you serve the
public, you do not have such a choice.  If you serve young family members,
you may held criminally negligent if serious disease (kidney failure)
results.

Rob