This is a problem that can affect anyone, anywhere in the world. From home-cooked meals to meals at renowned restaurants, no one is immune to this unpleasant condition.
In this article, we will explore the main causes of food poisoning, as well as prevention tips to avoid this disorder.
Common causes of food poisoning
Bacteria and viruses are some of the main culprits in triggering episodes of food poisoning.
Among the most well-known are Salmonella, Escherichia coli (E. coli), norovirus, and rotavirus.
These microorganisms can contaminate food at various stages, from cultivation to final consumption.
Salmonella
Present mainly in animal-derived foods, such as raw meat, poultry, eggs, and unpasteurized dairy, Salmonella is one of the leading causes of the problem.
It can be transmitted to food during agricultural production, processing, or even through improper handling in kitchens.
E. coli
Certain strains of Escherichia coli, particularly E. coli O157:H7, are known to cause severe gastrointestinal illnesses.
Contact with contaminated raw meat, untreated water, and unpasteurized dairy products are some of the main routes of infection.
Norovirus and rotavirus
This highly contagious virus can spread quickly in environments where food is handled.
It can be transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water, direct contact with infected surfaces or objects, and even through the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs near food.
Improper food handling is another cause to be mentioned. Lack of hygiene during food preparation and consumption can result in the transfer of harmful germs to food, increasing the risk of contamination.
Often, we neglect the importance of washing our hands properly before handling food. The lack of a thorough and proper hand wash can result in the transfer of bacteria and viruses to food, contaminating them and causing poisoning.
Cross-contamination occurs when raw foods come into contact with ready-to-eat foods or preparation surfaces.
For example, cutting vegetables on a cutting board that was used to cut raw meat without proper cleaning can transfer bacteria from the meat to the vegetables, increasing the risk of poisoning.
Storing food at inadequate temperatures is another important cause to remember.
Improper storage can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth, especially in perishable products such as meat, dairy, and eggs.
Leaving perishable foods out of the refrigerator for long periods or storing them at inadequate temperatures can allow bacteria to multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of food poisoning when these foods are consumed.
It is important to keep the refrigerator at a temperature below 4 °C and ensure that hot foods are kept at a temperature above 60 °C to prevent bacterial growth.
Symptoms of food poisoning
Food poisoning can manifest a variety of symptoms that can vary in intensity and duration, depending on the causative agent, the amount ingested, and the general health of the individual.
Some of the symptoms include:
Nausea and vomiting
These are often the first symptoms to manifest after ingesting contaminated food.
The feeling of nausea can be accompanied by frequent episodes of vomiting, as the body tries to get rid of the causative agent of the poisoning.
Diarrhea
Usually develops a few hours after ingesting contaminated food.
It can vary in severity, from watery stools to bloody diarrhea, depending on the cause of the poisoning.
Abdominal pain
Many people experience intense abdominal pain and cramps as a result of poisoning.
It can be localized to a specific area of the abdomen or may be diffuse.
Fever
Fever is a natural response of the body to an infection and may accompany poisoning, especially when the cause is a bacterium or virus.
Dehydration
Loss of fluids due to diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, especially in severe cases of food poisoning.
Symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, decreased urine output, dizziness, weakness, and fatigue.
In more severe cases, serious complications such as kidney failure, which is a potentially fatal condition that requires immediate medical treatment, or encompass damage to the nervous system, heart problems, and respiratory issues can occur.
Preventive measures for food poisoning
Preventing food poisoning is essential to ensure health and well-being.
There are several measures that can be taken to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure food safety, such as:
- Proper hand washing;
- Sanitizing surfaces and utensils;
- Separating raw and cooked foods;
- Cooking food properly;
- Storing food correctly;
- Washing fruits and vegetables.
Food safety tips for cooking at home
Cooking at home is a practice that offers full control over the ingredients and food preparation methods, but it is essential to ensure food safety throughout the process.
One of the first precautions to be taken is to keep work surfaces clean and disinfected, especially before and after handling food.
Additionally, it is important to thoroughly wash fresh produce, such as fruits and vegetables, to remove dirt, pesticide residues, and potentially harmful microorganisms.
When dealing with raw foods, such as meat, poultry, fish, and eggs, it is essential to take extra precautions to avoid cross-contamination.
Besides, it is necessary to defrost frozen foods safely, either in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave, avoiding defrosting them at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
After cooking food, it is crucial to cool it quickly to prevent the proliferation of bacteria and, when storing cooked food in the refrigerator, make sure the temperature is set correctly (below 4°C) and check regularly with a thermometer.
By following these food safety tips while cooking at home, you can significantly reduce the risk of poisoning and ensure safe and healthy meals for you and your family.
When is seeking medical care recommended?
When it comes to food poisoning, it is crucial to know when to seek medical care.
While many cases are mild and can be treated at home, there are situations where medical assistance is necessary.
If symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsen over time, it is time to seek medical help.
Risk groups, such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems, should seek medical help if they show any symptoms of poisoning.
Furthermore, if there are signs of serious complications, such as seizures, mental confusion, respiratory or neurological problems, it is essential to seek immediate medical assistance.
Complications such as kidney failure, heart problems, or damage to the nervous system require urgent medical attention.
Trust your instincts and do not hesitate to seek medical help if you are concerned about the severity of the symptoms. Timely medical treatment can prevent serious complications and promote a quicker and safer recovery.
Always remember: it is better to be cautious and seek help when necessary than to risk serious complications.
Food poisoning is an unpleasant but often preventable condition. By following good hygiene, storage, and food preparation practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of poisoning and enjoy safe and healthy meals at home and away.
Do not forget the importance of washing hands, cooking food thoroughly, and properly storing perishable products. Your health is worth the precaution!
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Doutor em Gastroenterologia pela FM-USP.
Especialista em Cirurgia do Aparelho Digestivo (HCFMUSP), Endoscopia Digestiva (SOBED) e Gastroenterologia (FBG).
Professor do curso de Medicina da Fundação Educacional do Município de Assis - FEMA.
Médico da clínica Gastrosaúde de Marília.