Symptoms of Food Induced Ill Health
Symptoms of Food Induced Ill Health
Overview of Food-Induced Ill Health
- Food-induced ill health refers to disorders or diseases resulting from the consumption of unsafe or contaminated food.
- Symptoms might occur immediately, or they could be delayed, depending on the cause and individual.
- Incorrect handling, storage, or cooking of food are common causes leading to food-induced ill health.
Types of Food Illnesses
Food Poisoning
- Caused by consuming food that is contaminated by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses or parasites.
- Symptoms typically begin within a few hours to a few days after eating the tainted food.
- Common symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever.
Allergies and Intolerances
- Food allergies and food intolerances are different, yet both can cause ill health.
- An allergic reaction can occur when the immune system overreacts to a protein in the food, treating it as a threat.
- Symptoms may include rashes, shortness of breath, swelling, vomiting, or in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
- Food intolerance is less severe but can cause discomfort with symptoms such as bloating, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.
Nutritional Deficiencies
- Improper diet or malnutrition can lead to nutritional deficiencies which can result in ill health.
- Symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness, pale skin (anaemia), or impaired immune function.
Preventing Food-Induced Ill Health
- Good practices in food handling, cooking, and storage can help prevent most cases of food-induced ill health.
- Understanding food allergens and providing accurate information about them can prevent allergic reactions.
- Proper diet, rich in various nutrients, can prevent nutritional deficiencies.
- In the Hospitality and Catering industry, individuals must complete food hygiene training and adhere to Food Safety Management Systems (FSMS), which can significantly reduce instances of food-induced ill health.