Food poisoning, also known as foodborne illness, occurs when you consume contaminated food or beverages containing harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins. While your immune system can fight off many pathogens, sometimes the contamination is severe enough to cause illness. Most cases are mild and resolve on their own, but severe cases can be dangerous, especially for young children, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems.
Several pathogens can cause food poisoning. Bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria are among the most common culprits, often found in undercooked meat, unpasteurized dairy, and contaminated vegetables. Viruses such as norovirus and hepatitis A can spread through food that’s been handled by infected individuals.
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