Food poisoning is an acute illness (sudden onset) caused by eating contaminated or poisonous food and the toxins produced by harmful bacteria.
The toxins typically cause abdominal pain (cramping) and vomiting. They also cause the small intestine to secrete excessive amounts of water that leads to diarrhea.
Generally, the symptoms of food poisoning can occur anywhere from a few minutes after eating contaminated food to several hours and the side effects usually last less than 24 hours, if you are lucky.
Be careful during summer, but keep in mind the same thing can happen even when the weather is cooler or cold. A small mistake can cause big problems.
What Precautions to you need to take?
Food must be cooked properly. It should be kept refrigerated before and after cooking. Wash utensils, fruits and vegetable carefully. Do not leave food open in the room. Bacteria Lurk.
They Are Dangerous Bacteria and viruses can be found on dairy and poultry products, as well as on food products.
The beginning symptoms can include any of the following: vomiting, diarrhea, pain in stomach and high fever. If the pain is severe, you could even black out.
During the summer, the temperature and humidity increases. This can cause food to deteriorate much faster and it provides the bacteria with everything it needs to get completely out of control.
What are the Things You Can Do to Lower the Risk?
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food.
Make sure to keep the clean. Clean all utensils, food and food products.
Wash raw food products properly before cooking.
Do not leave food out at room temperature for more than two hours.
Cook all food properly.
Make sure the temperature in the freezer and refrigerator are cold enough.
If you BBQ and use charcoal, make sure it is glowing red, with a powdery gray surface, before starting cooking.
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after touching raw meat, fish or chicken.
Keep your pets away from food, dishes and preparation surfaces.
Keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Keep all cooked food protected with a clean cover at all times.
Keep your refrigerator clean. If you spill something inside it, then you must clean it up immediately.
Frozen foods should be thoroughly defrosted before cooking, unless it is an item that is prepared in a microwave.
If you have never experienced Food Poisoning, then you are indeed lucky. If you have experienced Food Poisoning, then you know firsthand that it is not a pleasant experience.
