FOODBORNE ILLNESS Meaning and
Definition
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Foodborne illness, also known as food poisoning or foodborne disease, refers to an infection or intoxication resulting from consuming contaminated food or drinks. It is caused by the ingestion of harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, or their toxins, which contaminate the food during production, processing, preparation, or storage. These microorganisms can multiply in food if not stored or handled properly, leading to the production of toxins that can cause illness.
Foodborne illnesses can manifest in various forms, ranging from mild and self-limiting symptoms to severe and life-threatening conditions. Symptoms typically include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, and fatigue. Depending on the specific microorganism involved, additional symptoms or complications may arise.
Common sources of foodborne illnesses include raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, raw eggs, unpasteurized dairy products, fresh produce, and contaminated water. Cross-contamination, inadequate sanitation, improper food handling and storage, and poor personal hygiene practices (such as inadequate handwashing) can contribute to the spread of foodborne pathogens.
Prevention and control of foodborne illnesses involve several measures, including proper food handling, storage, and cooking, using clean and sanitized kitchen utensils and surfaces, avoiding cross-contamination, consuming pasteurized dairy products and cooked eggs, and ensuring safe water sources. Various regulatory agencies and health organizations provide guidelines and regulations to promote food safety and minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Common Misspellings for FOODBORNE ILLNESS
Etymology of FOODBORNE ILLNESS
The word "foodborne illness" is derived from a combination of two terms: "food" and "borne illness".
The term "food" originates from the Old English word "fōda", which referred to nourishment or sustenance. It has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "fōdō" and the Proto-Indo-European word "pat" or "pad", both meaning "to feed" or "to provide for".
The word "borne" is the past participle form of the verb "bear". In this context, "borne" means carried or transmitted. It comes from the Old English word "beran", which is related to the Old High German word "beran" and the Proto-Germanic word "beranan".
"Illness" is derived from the Old English word "īlne", which meant "bad" or "evil".
