ABSTRACT
Foodborne pathogens and toxins 59 Infections 61 Intoxications 81
Prion disease 90 Summary 91 Sources of information and further reading 92
Food poisoning is caused by a wide range of noxious substances (poisonous chemicals or pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, protozoa, viruses, and toxins produced by bacteria, algae and fungi) that may be present in food. These agents are not only responsible for gastroenteritis, but can also cause disease outside the intestinal tract, as well as resulting in long-term disability and, rarely, death. Under standing the nature, distribution and occurrence of pathogenic microbes and toxins is essential for prevention and control of food poisoning, as well as understanding the principles behind hygienic food processes.
