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Nutrition.gov
U.S. Department of Agriculture

Food Poisoning

What is food poisoning, and how long does it last? Use these resources to learn about food poisoning symptoms, common causes, and what to do if you get sick.

  • Foodborne Illness and Disease

    Foodborne illness, commonly known as food poisoning, occurs when food is contaminated with harmful germs. Find out how food can become contaminated and what you can do to prevent illness.  

    • USDA, Food Safety and Inspection Service

  • Food Safety Research Information Office (FSRIO)

    Stay up to date on the research being done to prevent contaminants in food, including Bacterial Pathogens, Chemical Contaminants, Natural Toxins, and Parasites, Viruses, and Prions.

    • USDA, National Agricultural Library

  • Foods That Can Cause Food Poisoning

    Discover what you can do to prevent, remove, or kill germs in the foods that are most often contaminated. 

    • HHS, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

  • Listeria (Listeriosis)

    Listeria is a germ that can hide in common foods. Read on to learn about the people who are at higher risk of listeria food poisoning and how it can be prevented.

    • HHS, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

  • Bacteria and Viruses

    Learn about the bacteria and viruses that most commonly cause food poisoning, including Salmonella, E.Coli, and Listeria. Find out what their symptoms are and how long they typically keep you sick.

    • HHS, Foodsafety.gov

  • Food Poisoning

    Find basic information on food poisoning and how it is caused.

    • HHS, Foodsafety.gov

  • Recalls and Outbreaks

    Get the latest food product recalls to keep you and your family safe.

    • HHS, Foodsafety.gov