Food poisoning: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention

Last updated on July 7th, 2024 at 01:23 pm

Food poisoning is a foodborne illness caused by eating contaminated food. It is also known as a sickness people get from something they eat or drink. The main causes of food poisoning are germs, bacteria, and some viruses which are found in contaminated food or drinks. The basic symptoms of food poisoning are upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Causes of Food Poisoning

Some common causes are : 

Food is not cooked or reheated thoroughly
When the food is not cooked properly then the bacteria and germs will still be present in the food. So, meat products must be cooked properly.

If any foods are not cooked properly then the risk of food poisoning increases because bacteria, germs and viruses are the main cause of it.

Food items must be reheated thoroughly. Not reheating the food items properly is also one of the causes of food poisoning.

Foodstuff is not stored correctly ( it’s not been frozen or chilled)
Not storing the food correctly is another cause of food poisoning. To avoid food poisoning, food products must be correctly stored at correct temperature. Food products must be stored in the refrigerator. 

Cooked by someone who’s not well or hasn’t washed their hands properly
If the cook who cooks the food is suffering from some kind of communicable disease then there will be a high chance of food poisoning. And also hygiene is really important when cooking meals. 

If the cook does not maintain hygiene in his/her kitchen then there is a high chance of food being contaminated.

If food is consumed after the expiry date is over
Eating anything after the expiry date is over can lead to food poisoning. Such foods are highly contaminated with germs and viruses which will destroy the good elements of food.

Food left out too long
When food that is left out for a long period of time is consumed, food poisoning may happen. Food should be consumed at the right time. It should not be left out for a long time. This is another cause of food poisoning.

Symptoms

Some common symptoms are : 

1. Upset stomach 

2. Vomiting

3. Diarrhea
   
4. Diarrhea with bloody stool

5. Fever 

6. Headache 

Prevention

Some preventions are: 

1. Wash your hands properly 

2. Wash fruits and vegetables before consuming them 

3. Wash kitchen utensils properly 

4. Don’t eat raw or undercooked meat or fish 

5. Refrigerate or freeze leftover food

6. Throw it out when in doubt (stale food) 

What should we do if we suffer from food poisoning?

If someone suffers from food poisoning, one should not panic. He/she should visit a doctor for consultation immediately and follow the treatment advice.

This article aims to raise awareness about food poisoning. It is always a good idea to eat homemade food. Following the above instructions will help you. We promote healthy living and a healthy lifestyle. Food poisoning is an unpleasant experience for a person. It’s always a good idea to take precautions rather than curing it. 

Reference
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/food-poisoning/