Foodborne illness is caused by bacteria and viruses - extremely tiny organisms that can only be seen with a microscope. Bacteria grow best in moist, non-acid foods that are high in protein such as milk, eggs, meat, poultry, fish, and shellfish. Vegetables and dry foods are less likely to cause illness. Most vegetables have some acid which slows the growth of bacteria. And dry foods such as sugar, flour, dry cereal, rice, cookies, and biscuits usually do not have enough moisture in them to allow bacteria to grow.
Many children get sick each year from the food they eat.
If they have diarrhea, vomiting, an upset stomach, fever, or cramps, you may think they have the flu. The real problem, however, could be foodborne illness. Children may show signs of illness from a few hours to a week after eating contaminated food. In serious cases, food poisoning causes double vision, trouble with swallowing or breathing, paralysis, or even death. Poor Food Handling.