What are the most common symptoms of foodborne illness?

The most common symptoms of foodborne illness include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, nausea, abdominal cramps, and jaundice. These symptoms are direct results of consuming contaminated food or beverages containing harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

When the body detects these pathogens, it responds with gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and vomiting as a way to expel the toxins, while fever and abdominal cramps often accompany these symptoms because they indicate the body’s immune response in action. Jaundice, which is characterized by a yellowing of the skin and eyes, may occur in cases involving liver infections, such as hepatitis A, highlighting the seriousness of certain foodborne illnesses.

Understanding these common symptoms is crucial for food service professionals, as it enables them to identify potential outbreaks early and implement necessary preventive measures to protect public health.