Preventing Food Poisoning
What is Food Poisoning?
Foodborne illness (sometimes called foodborne disease, foodborne infection, or food poisoning) is common, costly – and preventable. CDC estimates that 1 in 6 Americans get sick from eating contaminated food every year.
You can get food poisoning after swallowing food that has been contaminated with a variety of germs (bacteria, viruses, parasites) or toxic substances (chemical toxins or natural toxins such as those in some mushrooms and molds).
- Some foods are contaminated before they reach a kitchen.
- Others are contaminated by food handlers.
Protect Yourself from Food Poisoning
Keep Food Safe
Learn the four steps (clean, separate, cook, chill) to protect your family from food poisoning.
Foods Linked to Illness
Learn which foods are most associated with foodborne illnesses.
How Food Gets Contaminated
Food contamination can occur at any point—during production, processing, distribution, or preparation.
Raw Milk Dangers
Raw milk and products made from it can pose severe health risks, including death.
- Page last reviewed: July 24, 2017
- Page last updated: September 5, 2017
- Content source: