Common Causes of Food Poisoning

Common Causes of Food Poisoning

• Food poisoning is caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages.
• Food can be contaminated by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
• Symptoms of food poisoning vary depending on the cause, but common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
• Some types of food poisoning cause mild illness, while others can be severe.
• Raw poultry and eggs can contaminate foods with Salmonella. 
• Raw or undercooked meat and seafood can harbor pathogens like E. coli.
• Improperly refrigerated food can be contaminated by bacteria.
• Contaminated water can contaminate food.
• Food handlers' poor hygiene can lead to contamination.
• Symptoms of mild food poisoning, often bacterial, usually include mild to moderate illness with symptoms like fever, diarrhea, nausea, and headache.
• Some foodborne illnesses are viral, and these tend to cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or stomach discomfort. Symptoms can be mild to severe.
• Symptoms of more severe food poisoning can include rapid onset of severe nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and convulsions.
• Bacteria in food like Staphylococcus aureus can create severe symptoms in some food products.
• Foodborne illnesses like Vibrio can result in mild to severe symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea.
• Norovirus is a common viral cause of food poisoning characterized by mild symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach aches, and low-grade fever.
• Some types of food poisoning can cause severe, neurological complications.
• Infants and young children are more vulnerable to food poisoning.

This quiz explores the various causes of food poisoning, emphasizing contamination by bacteria, viruses, and parasites. It highlights symptoms, sources of contamination, and the importance of food safety practices. Test your knowledge on how different foods can affect your health!