Did you know that scientists and researchers have identified more than 250 different foodborne diseases? Or that there are more than 48 million reported cases of what is commonly referred to as ‘food poisoning’ in the United States each year? Most cases of foodborne illnesses are relatively mild, with symptoms that include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea, but food poisoning can be severe enough to require medical treatment. Around 128,000 cases each year are severe enough to require hospitalization and 3,000 people will die as a result, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Most cases of foodborne illnesses are infections, caused by different types of bacteria, viruses, and parasites, but some are the result of exposure to harmful toxins and chemicals which contaminate foods. Food poisoning is no respecter of persons, but some people groups, such as those with a compromised immune system, pregnant women, the elderly, and young children, have a greater chance of catching a foodborne disease than the general population.
Because of the potential for foodborne illnesses due to improperly stored, prepared, or maintained foods, it is important to learn the four food safety steps—clean, separate, cook, and chill. Observing these simple steps can help lower your chance of being involved in a food poisoning incident.
Whether you work in the food service industry, or just want to know more about safe food handling procedures when you are preparing food at home for your family, FoodHandlerClasses.com provides safe food handler training via an online learning environment with integrated exam platform, which is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Food Handler Classes is available in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. For more information visit https://www.foodhandlerclasses.com.