Ptomaines are foul-smelling products of bacteria present in putrefying food. They were once believed to cause food poisoning. It is now known that so-called ptomaine poisoning is bacterial infection of the intestines. The physician may treat any water and salt deficiency, a consequence of the vomiting and diarrhea. More severe vomiting may require use of antinauseant medication.
Some infections require antibiotic therapy.
Persons involved in the processing or preparation of food should be checked for skin infections. All fresh fruit and raw vegetables should be washed thoroughly before being eaten. Cooked food should be covered, cooled quickly, and stored in a refrigerator to prevent the growth of bacteria. Food that is reheated should be eaten at once and not kept warm, because this encourages the growth of bacteria.