You wake up all sweaty and it feels like your guts are fighting their way out of your stomach. You run. You make it just in time but you are sure this is the end. We’ve all been there, the dreaded fate of food poisoning!
Foodborne diseases, also known as food poisoning, are caused by eating food contaminated with harmful microorganisms or toxins. The symptoms of foodborne illness range from mild to severe, and can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. In some cases, foodborne diseases can be life-threatening. Let’s look at the common types of foodborne illnesses, how they are transmitted, and how to prevent them.
Types of Foodborne Diseases
There are many types of foodborne diseases, but the most common are caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Some of the most common types of foodborne illnesses include;
- Salmonella – Salmonella is a type of bacteria that is found in raw meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.
- E. coli – E. coli is a type of bacteria that is found in undercooked beef, raw milk, and contaminated water. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
- Listeria – Listeria is a type of bacteria that is found in raw or undercooked meats, unpasteurized dairy products, and processed meats. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and diarrhea.
- Norovirus – Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that is spread through contaminated food and water. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
- Hepatitis A – Hepatitis A is a virus that is spread through contaminated food and water. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, and jaundice.
Transmission of Foodborne Diseases
You’re probably wondering how this happens. Transmission of Foodborne Diseases can happen in a various ways and knowing this can help us understand how to properly work with food to avoid contamination and transmission.
- Storage – Food can become contaminated during storage if it is not stored at the proper temperature or if it is stored with other contaminated food.
- Cooking – Food can become contaminated during cooking if it is not cooked to the proper temperature or if it is not cooked long enough.
- Serving – Food can become contaminated during serving if it is not served at the proper temperature or if it is served with other contaminated food.
How do we prevent this from happening?
Preventing foodborne diseases is important to protect yourself and others from illness. Here are some tips for preventing foodborne diseases:
Wash those grabbers! – Wash your hands before and after handling food, and after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or touching animals.
Turn up the heat! – Use a food thermometer to ensure that meat, poultry, and fish are cooked to the proper temperature.
Be cool, bro… – Store food at the proper temperature to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Social distance is not a thing of the past – Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination.
Rub a dub dub – Clean cutting boards, utensils, and countertops with hot, soapy water after each use.
Know what’s up – Avoid risky foods like raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs.
Foodborne diseases can be prevented by taking simple precautions like washing your hands, cooking food to the proper temperature, and storing food properly. By following these simple steps, you can protect yourself but not exactly your entire business. Consult with experts like us!
Give PTQA a call and protect your clients (and business!) from illness and provide safe, delicious food.