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Showing posts with the label foodborne illness

E. Coli: Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention

Escherichia coli, commonly known as E. coli, is a type of bacteria that is often associated with food borne illness. While many strains of E. coli are harmless and even beneficial, some can cause serious health issues. In this blog post, we will delve into what E. coli is, its potential risks, symptoms of infection, and how to prevent it. What Is E. Coli? E. coli is a bacterium found in the intestines of humans and animals. It plays a crucial role in the digestive process. However, certain pathogenic strains, such as E. coli O157:H7, can lead to severe gastrointestinal illness and other serious health complications. Sources of E. Coli Infection E. coli can be transmitted through various sources, including: Contaminated Food: Undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized milk, and fresh produce like spinach and lettuce can harbour harmful strains of E. coli.  Contaminated Water: Drinking or swimming in contaminated water can also lead to infection. Person-to-Person Contact: Poor hygiene pract

Salmonella and Eggs: Safety Tips for Consumers

  Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, and one of the most common sources of this pathogen is eggs. While eggs are a staple in many diets around the world, understanding how to handle and prepare them safely is crucial to prevent Salmonella infection. In this blog post, we will explore what Salmonella is, how it can contaminate eggs, and best practices for safe egg consumption. What is Salmonella? Salmonella is a genus of bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal illness in humans. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting, which can appear 6 hours to 6 days after infection. While most people recover without treatment, severe cases can lead to hospitalization, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.   How Can Eggs Be Contaminated? From the Hen: Salmonella can live in the intestines of healthy chickens. If the eggs are contaminated during the laying