What is foodborne illness?

Foodborne illness refers specifically to health issues that arise from the consumption of contaminated food. This can occur when food is contaminated with pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites, or when it is contaminated with harmful substances like chemicals or toxins.

The definition encompasses various conditions, including those caused by improper food handling, inadequate cooking, or cross-contamination. Contaminated food may lead to symptoms ranging from mild gastrointestinal discomfort to severe illness, and in some cases, it can even be life-threatening. Understanding this definition is crucial for food safety practices, which aim to prevent such illnesses through proper cooking, handling, and storage of food.

The other options involve different aspects of health and illness: mental health issues pertain to psychological conditions, a lack of nutrients relates to dietary deficiencies, and environmental toxins can result in illnesses unrelated to food consumption. Therefore, these do not fall under the category of foodborne illness.