Foodborne Illness: What You Need to Know

When dealing with foodborne illness, an illness caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages. Also known as food poisoning, it can range from mild stomach upset to severe, life‑threatening disease. Understanding foodborne illness can keep you and your family safe.

Bacterial contamination, the presence of harmful bacteria in food is a primary cause of foodborne illness, with pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria behind many outbreaks.

Key Aspects of Foodborne Illness

Prevention, proper food handling, cooking, and storage practices reduces risk dramatically. Typical symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, usually appearing within hours to days after exposure. Mild cases often improve with hydration and rest, while severe infections may require antibiotics or hospital care, especially for children, seniors, and pregnant women.

The articles below dive into specific pathogens, real‑world outbreak case studies, and step‑by‑step guides that help you keep your kitchen safe and your health protected.