What is a foodborne illness?

A foodborne illness is defined as an illness resulting from the ingestion of contaminated food. This contamination can occur due to various factors such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemicals that may be present in food. When individuals consume food that harbors these pathogens or toxins, they can experience symptoms ranging from mild gastrointestinal distress to severe illness requiring medical attention.

The understanding of foodborne illnesses is crucial in food safety practices, as preventing contamination at all stages—from production and handling to cooking and serving—is key to ensuring the health of consumers. This option highlights the importance of recognizing how food can become unsafe to eat and underscores the necessity for proper food handling and hygiene practices to mitigate these risks.