We have completed maintenance on DiscoverMagazine.com and action may be required on your account. Learn More

What are Different Types of Food Poisoning and How Can You Avoid Them?

Foodborne illnesses can be transmitted through various foods. Explore the causes of food poisoning and learn how to prevent it.

By Emilie Le Beau Lucchesi; Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ahmad Talha Azam
Jan 11, 2024 4:00 PM
woman in bed with stomach cramps from food poisoning
(Credit: TORWAISTUDIO/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

A head of lettuce sealed in plastic. A chicken tender from the hot bar at the local grocery. A bowl of cereal. An oyster served on a bed of ice at a fancy seafood bar. 

Which of these foods can give you food poisoning?

Most people might guess the oyster, but the answer is that any of these foods — even the cooked and packaged ones — can carry foodborne illness.

Food contamination can lead to illnesses that are uncomfortable or painful. For the very young, elderly, or people with compromised health, food contamination can even be deadly.

What Is a Foodborne Illness?

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.