Once food has been contaminated, it can make an individual sick. Depending on the degree of adulteration and the course, contact with tainted food can instigate indications such as nausea, cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, allergies, nerve damage and even paralysis.
If an individual eats contaminated food with pathogenic bacteria, bacterial toxins and allergens, they can trigger a quick effect. As for food that has been contaminated with mercury, regular consumption over time will eventually lead to significant effects.
Food-borne infection
Always bear in mind that food-borne infection is basically a type of food poisoning that can occur once food that was eaten is contaminated with pathogenic bacteria such as salmonella or E. coli. Even though bacteria are present, they can multiply in the digestive tract that will make the individual sick.
Even though many foods contain a certain amount of bacteria, some are considered dangerous and cause symptoms such as nausea, stomach cramps, fever, vomiting and diarrhea. The effects can be serious especially for babies, elderly, pregnant women and those who have a compromised immune system. Depending on the species of bacteria, the symptoms of a food-borne infection can take up to a month to develop.
Allergic reactions
It is important to note that processed food products intermittently become tainted with unidentified allergens which the manufacturers unintentionally allowed contact with ingredients for other products. This can occur when the processing equipment is not thoroughly cleaned between manufacturing of various products or there is an error in the ingredients added. The common allergens include fish, peanuts, eggs, soybeans, wheat, tree nuts and shellfish. Once a food is contaminated with an allergen that is not listed on the label, it is a serious health risk to those who have allergies. It is best to register for first aid training today to be prepared in case of an allergic reaction.
Mercury poisoning
Over time, mercury that was released from industrial processes has settled in the waterways and been absorbed into the food chain. Due to this, different species of fish are contaminated with dangerous levels of mercury with the large species of fish having the highest level.
Individuals who eat fish such as swordfish, tuna and mackerel on a regular basis are at risk for mercury poisoning. Always bear in mind that neurotoxin can cause damage to the nervous system, reduce the fertility level and even increase the risk for heart disease. Pregnant women and young children are highly sensitive to these effects and must be conscious with the amount of fish eaten.
Food intoxication
Food intoxication is a type of food poisoning that is caused by bacterial toxins. Even though Staphylococcus aureus and Clostridium botulinum will not trigger sickness, the toxins that they release into the food can. If the contaminated food contains C. botulinum, the individual will experience symptoms such as vertigo, weakness and vomiting within 36 hours. Unless medical treatments are provided, food intoxication from botulinum can lead to paralysis and even death.