Foodborne GI Illnesses
There are many different disease-causing microbes, or pathogens, that can contaminate food, so there are many different foodborne infections. Poisonous chemicals or other harmful substances can also cause foodborne diseases if they are present in food. More than 250 different foodborne diseases have been described. Most of these diseases are infections, caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can be foodborne. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 1 in 6 Americans gets sick by consuming contaminated foods or beverages every year!
The following are some commonly recognized foodborne infections:
Cholera - Fact Sheet or CDC Website
Vibriosis - Fact Sheet or CDC Website
Foods that are most often associated with foodborne illness include:
Raw foods of animal origin, such as raw meat, poultry and seafood. Foodborne illness can occur raw meat, poultry or seafood is not thawed, prepared, cooked and stored properly.
Eggs and egg products. Eggs should be refrigerated, cooked until yolks are firm and cook foods that contain eggs thoroughly to prevent foodborne illness.
Raw milk and cheese or other dairy products made with raw milk. It is important to make sure that milk and dairy products have been pasteurized.
Fresh fruits, vegetables and juices. Fresh produce may come into contact with bacteria from many sources. Washing produce may decrease contamination. Fruit and vegetable juices must be treated to kill bacteria.For additional information on foodborne illnesses, please visit the following CDC websites: