Food Poisoning

Biting Back

Food poisoning in the United States is most often associated with large social gatherings where foods may be left unrefrigerated for extended periods of time. It is also associated with improper preparation of food, mislabeling of harmful foods, and illegally harvested shellfish.

Prevention

Most food poisoning can be prevented by properly cooking food, such as poultry, eggs and meats. Other foods, such as contaminated shellfish, are harmful even when properly cooked.

Symptoms

In general, symptoms of food poisoning appear 2 to 48 hours after the meal, and may include:

nausea vomiting abdominal cramping diarrhea

weakness chills headache  fever

If you suspect food poisoning, call your doctor immediately.

Reduce your risk:

• Shellfish poisoning
• Botulism (home canning; pork)
• Salmonella (poultry; eggs)
• E. coli poisoning (meat)
• Talking turkey: Safe cooking tips