#DYK: Why are people getting sick from food?

If you have watched the news lately or read stories online, I’m sure you have seen an increasing presence of bacterial infections from the food we are consuming. One of the most famous news stories that you have heard about is Chipotle’s problem of people eating there and getting sick with a restaurant in Ohio even shutting down. Or maybe you are aware of the tainted romaine lettuce? Why is this happening? 

Well, first there is more awareness of all these outbreaks due to social media. Seems like everyone is a reporter these days so as they say bad news travels fast. Having a social media presence can be a boon as well as a curse for companies especially those that are restaurants. No one wants to hear a person got sick after eating there, right? But this still doesn’t explain what is causing people to be sick.

When we cook at home, we are hopefully following safe practices like boiling the water, checking the meat temperature to see it is done, washing our hands before cooking, etc. but when you are eating out, some of those parameters are out of your control. Hence, fish, dairy, chicken, and veggies are quick to develop salmonella and E. Coli, both of which are bacteria that in high amounts can result in severe diarrhea, kidney failure, heart disease, and even death. 

Outbreaks are increasing not only because farming practices are being revved up to the point that output is more important than quality but also because there is no governing body who can be everywhere at the same time to ensure the food that is making its way to the consumer is produced in the best, safe manner it can be.

What can you do to keep yourself safe from food-borne illness? Watch the news or read online about possible outbreaks. Be aware of what you are eating and where you are eating. Of course, eating a home-cooked meal is always the best option but we can’t do that always. Finally, workout! The fitter you are, the better your body can fight off the illness. There is no guarantee you can always find quality food everywhere but you can definitely be aware and lead a healthy life to mitigate some of those risks.