What Is Food Poisoning?

Food, however nourishing, is of no value to the body unless it is digested. When we have eaten and swallowed our food, it is still not inside our bodies in the strict sense of the word. This is so because in the process of the digestion, food particles are broken down into molecules that are small enough to diffuse into the blood stream and thus be distributed in the body wherever they are needed.

Most cases of food poisoning are not caused by food itself but rather by toxins produced by micro-organisms. Improperly refrigerated or covered meats, cheeses, custards, and overripe fruits are especially dangerous. Digestive distress usually begins 2-4hours after eating the food. Symptoms often include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and cramps. Botulism is a serious and often fatal form of food poisoning. It is caused by toxins produced by bacterium, Clostridium botulinum.