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WHAT IS FOOD POISONING?

Food poisoning is an illness caused by eating food contaminated with bacteria, such as salmonella or E.coli, or a virus, like the norovirus.

Raw meat and shellfish, unpasteurised milk and 'ready to eat' foods, like soft cheeses, are most likely to be contaminated.

Symptoms usually start within two days of eating the food.

These may include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea, which may contain blood or mucus
  • Abdominal pain
  • Loss of energy
  • Aching muscles

Most people do not require treatment and get better within a few days.

They should ensure they rest and drink lots of fluids to combat dehydration.

They should contact their GP if their symptoms become severe or do not improve after several days.

Doctors should be made aware if the elderly, pregnant women, children, or those with an underlying health condition or weakened immune system are affected. 

Food may become contaminated if it is:

  • Not cooked thoroughly
  • Left for too long at room temperature
  • Not sufficiently reheated
  • Eaten passed its 'use by' date
  • Touched with contaminated hands
  • Not stored below 5C
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