Food poisoning is an acute, often severe gastrointestinal disorder caused by eating food contaminated with bacteria or the toxins they produce. For some consumers, foodborne illness results in temporary discomfort or lost time from work or other daily activity.[1] Food poisoning is caused by consuming foods which are contaminated with any combination of four pathogenic substances, these being; bacteria, toxins, viruses, and/or parasites. Contamination typically arises from improper handling, preparation or storage of food.[2] Food poisoning is caused by eating contaminated food. Food poisoning affects more than five million Australians every year.[3]
Food poisoning is a condition which needs to be taken seriously as it could be fatal. Food poisoning is becoming bigger, more complex and harder to control. Meat is a main culprit because bugs love it![5] Food poisoning is something many people may associate raw chicken- and with the school cafeteria, buffet lines and greasy spoon diners. At least that's what they say when they call in sick![6]
Food poisoning is often due to one of these bacteria, but viral infections, such as the Norwalk virus, are increasingly common. [7] Food poisoning is almost always the result of improper growing, processing, distribution, or preparation of food. Produce may become contaminated with salmonella, shigella, or Escherichia coli.
Food poisoning is serious business; a case of indigestion will give you that message. [9]
Food poisoning is just that? a poison. Short-lived strains of bacteria emit waste product in a form that is highly toxic to humans.[10] Food poisoning is an illness caused by eating foods that have harmful organisms in them. These harmful germs can include bacteria, parasites , and viruses .[11] Food poisoning is a fact of life and will never be eradicated. Usually the illness is mild, but it can be serious.[12]
Food poisoning is often suspected when several people become ill after eating the same food. Your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and the food you ate just before you became ill.[13] Food poisoning is a common, yet distressing and sometimes life-threatening problem for millions of people in the U.S., and throughout the world. People infected with foodborne organisms may be symptom-free or may have symptoms ranging from mild intestinal discomfort to severe dehydration and bloody diarrhea .[14] Food poisoning is usually a self-limiting event and no specific medical intervention is needed. First aid is directed at keeping those stricken comfortable and hydrated.
Food poisoning is not a joke; diarrhea is a killer. Make certain you rehydrate, replace electrolytes and reintroduce healthy bacteria (acidophilus).[16] Food poisoning is a general term for health problems arising from eating food contaminated by viruses, chemicals, or bacterial toxins. Types of food poisoning include bacterial food poisoning, shellfish poisoning, and mushroom poisoning.[17]