What is a common symptom of a foodborne illness?

Nausea and vomiting are classic symptoms of foodborne illness because they are the body’s natural responses to harmful pathogens or toxins that have been ingested. When contaminated food is consumed, the digestive system may react by attempting to expel the harmful substances quickly, leading to these symptoms. This response can occur shortly after consuming the contaminated food and is a sign that the body is trying to protect itself from further harm.

Other symptoms often associated with foodborne illnesses include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever, which can further indicate that the digestive system is under stress from an infection or toxic reaction. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for anyone working in food safety to help identify potential outbreaks and protect public health effectively.