Food poisoning is applied to illness resulting from bacterial or viral contamination of food.

                 There are many opportunities for contamination to occur, during the trail of harvesting, processing, packaging, transporting and displaying

  Symptoms;

n      Nausea

n      Vomiting

n      Diarrhoea

n      Cramps

n      Headache

                 Botulism is a rare but grave form of food poisoning caused by nerve toxins….

   Symptoms;

n      Double vision

n      Difficulty in speaking, chewing, swallowing and breathing

                  If you have any of these more severe symptoms go to your local emergency for immediate medical attention…..

                   Your body will rid itself of the organisms that cause food poisoning through vomiting and diarrhoea….let nature run its course even though it may be unpleasant….

                   Do not eat until your body can handle it and then start with very small amounts of very bland foods. Avoid dehydration by sipping water or a mixture of apple juice and water….

Here are some precautions to take when handling and preparing food;

1. Be careful when handling meat, fish, shellfish and specially poultry.

n      Wash hands before starting any food preparation

n      Remove rings

n      Make sure finger nails are clean

1. Use hot soapy water to wash food preparation surfaces
2. Always keep raw foods away from any other foods and dairy products to prevent cross-contamination
3. Wash your tea towel or sponge with hot soapy water after every use
4. Keep food refrigerated
5. Discard food that smells or is discoloured
6. Do not use food from cans that are damaged

                  If you have the symptoms for food poisoning try and figure out what was eaten, this can help determine which bacteria was responsible……

                  If fever develops or the symptoms persist for more than a few days, seek medical attention…..

               I hope this helps………….