Food poisoning is caused by consuming contaminated food or beverages. The most common causes of food poisoning include:
1. Bacteria: Bacterial contamination is a leading cause of food poisoning. Examples of bacteria that can cause food poisoning include Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Listeria.
2. Viruses: Certain viruses, such as norovirus and hepatitis A, can be transmitted through contaminated food or water and cause food poisoning.
3. Parasites: Parasites like Giardia and Cryptosporidium can contaminate food and cause food poisoning when consumed.
4. Toxins: Some types of food poisoning are caused by toxins produced by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus or Clostridium botulinum. These toxins can be present in improperly stored or prepared food.
5. Chemicals: Certain chemicals, such as pesticides or heavy metals, can contaminate food and cause food poisoning if consumed in high amounts.
It is important to practice proper food handling, storage, and preparation techniques to reduce the risk of food poisoning.