(NC) About one in eight Canadians will get sick from food poisoning this year. Food poisoning is any sickness that results from eating contaminated food. Most people affected by food poisoning will recover without any lasting effects. But for some, the effects can be devastating and even deadly.
The best way to protect yourself and your family is by following the four rules of food safety: clean, separate, cook and chill. Some groups of people are more vulnerable to getting sick from contaminated food. If they do get sick, the effects can be much more serious. These groups include pregnant women, children five and under, adults aged 60 or older, and people with compromised immune systems or chronic illnesses.
Harmful bacteria are the most common cause of food poisoning, but there are many other causes including bacteria, viruses, moulds, toxins, contaminants, parasites, and allergens. Serious long-term effects include kidney failure, chronic arthritis, brain and nerve damage, and death.
Find more information online at Canada.ca/FoodSafety.
www.newscanada.com