What is Food Poisoning?
Foodborne illness, commonly known as food poisoning, happens when people eat food containing harmful germs or organisms including bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi. Many foods naturally contain small amounts of these germs, but our bodies can usually handle them without getting sick. Unsafe food handling can allow these germs to multiply to the point where they can make us ill.
Many people think food poisoning is something that only happens when you go out to eat, but in fact many cases of foodborne illness happen right at home. It can be very dangerous and can lead to long-term health complications and even death. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk.
Foodborne illness can be prevented by following safe food handling practices:
- Keep your hands, utensils, and preparation areas clean
- Keep raw meats away from cooked foods or foods that won’t be cooked such as salads, fruits and vegetables, deli meat, etc.
- Cook food thoroughly
- Store raw and cooked foods at proper temperatures
It is strongly recommended that all persons planning to prepare and sell/give away food to the public take a safe food handling course.
For Further Information
Call a Public Health Inspector: (807) 625-5900
or toll-free 1-888-294-6630