Food poisoning ,also called foodborne illness is illness caused by eating contaminated food .

Food poisoning is a condition that is caused due to consumption of contaminated food. It can range from mild to severe, and can even be life-threatening in some cases. It can affect anyone, but young children, elderly people, pregnant women and people with weak immune systems are more susceptible.

Causes of Food Poisoning
There are various causes of food poisoning, some of which are mentioned below:

- Bacteria: Bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, Listeria, etc. are the most common cause of food poisoning. These bacteria are found in raw or undercooked meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, etc.

- Viruses: Certain viruses like norovirus, rotavirus, etc. can also cause food poisoning. They are usually found in contaminated water or food that has been handled by an infected person.

- Parasites: Parasites like Giardia, Cryptosporidium, etc. can cause food poisoning. They are usually found in contaminated water or food that has been contaminated by fecal matter.

- Toxins: Certain toxins like aflatoxin, botulinum toxin, etc. can also cause food poisoning. They are usually found in contaminated food that has been stored improperly or prepared under unhygienic conditions.

- Chemicals: Certain chemicals like pesticides, heavy metals, etc. can also cause food poisoning. They are usually found in contaminated food that has been grown using these chemicals.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning
The symptoms of food poisoning can vary depending on the cause, but some common symptoms include:

- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache

Prevention of Food Poisoning
Food poisoning can be prevented by following some simple precautions, some of which are mentioned below:

- Wash hands thoroughly before handling food
- Cook food thoroughly, especially meat, poultry and eggs
- Store food at the correct temperature
- Use safe water for drinking and cooking
- Avoid cross-contamination by keeping raw and cooked food separate
- Practice good hygiene while handling food

In conclusion, food poisoning is a serious condition that can be caused due to various factors. It is important to take necessary precautions to prevent it and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms.