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Index of Diseases and Conditions: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Food Contamination and Poisoning

Each year, 76 million people in the U.S. get sick from contaminated food. Common culprits include bacteria, parasites and viruses. Symptoms range from mild to serious. They include

Harmful bacteria are the most common cause of foodborne illness. Foods may have some bacteria on them when you buy them. Raw meat may become contaminated during slaughter. Fruits and vegetables may become contaminated when they are growing or when they are processed. But it can also happen in your kitchen if you leave food out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.

The treatment in most cases is increasing your fluid intake. For more serious illness, you may need treatment at a hospital.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases


External Resources

Medlineplus: Food Contamination And Poisoning - Features news and factsheets.


Related Pages on HealthTales.com:

Poisoning
Food Allergy
Food Labeling
Food Safety
Lead Poisoning
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

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