What is Food Poisoning? Food poisoning, caused by harmful bacteria, normally produces intestinal flu-like symptoms lasting a few hours to several days. But is cases of botulism, or when food poisoning strikes infants, the ill or the elderly, the situation can be serious.
Where do these bacteria come from and how can they be stopped? Food poisoning bacteria, microscopic in size, surround us--in the air, soil, water, in our own digestive tracts, and in those of many animals. The only way they can effectively be stopped is by careful attention to food handling rules like those outlined.
Note: While the chart highlights the preventive measures most important in avoiding each type of bacteria, you should understand that all the rules of prevention should be followed with all food.