Is food borne illness caused by eating contaminated food?

Foodborne illness is, indeed, caused by consuming contaminated food. When food is contaminated, it can harbor pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and parasites, as well as harmful chemicals, which can lead to illness upon ingestion. This contamination can occur at any stage of food production—from growing and harvesting to processing, storage, and preparation.

Understanding that foodborne illnesses stem from contaminated food is critical for home care aides, as they may need to educate clients about food safety practices, such as proper cooking temperatures, safe food storage, and hygiene while handling food. Being aware of these practices helps prevent the spread of illness and ensures better health outcomes for those in their care.