Is food safe to eat in Panama?

I guess it depends on how it is cooked. I really do not understand your question. Could you be more specific?

There's always questionable food everywhere.

The most important thing to remember is to never eat street food - you never know if the vendors take the appropriate steps to wash food correctly before they prepare it. EVEN IF you see people going up to the stand and eating the food, it doesn't mean that your stomach will be able to handle it. Ask a trusted tour guide or your hotel concierge on safe places to eat.

I'm not sure if it's the same for Panama, but I know in Mexico the water is very unsafe. I'd suggest drinking mostly bottled water and other bottled products to make sure you are safe. Also, be sure to watch out for ice. Even if the water is bottled, the water in the ice may not be purified! Brushing your teeth can also be an interesting experience.

I'm going to assume that it's safe to eat in Panama. A big revenue of theirs is tourism, so they wouldn't make money if they gave you unsafe food.

Good luck and have fun on your trip!

Unless you already left...

If you buy food from the market and even if you buy it in the U.S. from the Farmer's Market you still have to be cautious. Make sure it is thoroughly washed. I would not go as far as buying meats or fish in a market, I would go to a grocery store where it is cleaned and packaged. I am from Nicaragua so Panama is almost the same concept as far as culture and open air markets. Panama is a well developed country and more so than Nicaragua so their sanitation ratings will be much better. Do not eat food in a dive. I am sure there are plenty of nice restaurants to enjoy especially if you are in Panama City. Hope this helps.