Food contaminants are wide spread concerns which affect the health
and safety of millions of Americans annually. Whether food is mishandled at the
manufacturing level or unclean conditions between the factory and home are
involved, the outcome can be minor to severe, depending on the actual cause of
the contamination.
Food Poisoning
Pathogens are present in some form in almost everything we consume. A limited amount is easily taken care of via the digestion process. But uncontrolled bacteria growth on food, surfaces, utensils, and human skin can cause discomfort, illness, and in some cases even death. The majority of food poisoning cases are due to bacteria and viruses. Those pathogens reproduce and grow wild on specific food sources such as cold cuts, raw meat such as chicken and ground beef, and dairy products.
Listeria cultures are the most prevalent pathogens present in the testing procedures of any food source-related growth. However, since listeria is found everywhere in nature, most bodies form a natural immunity to the bacteria. In some cases, extensive and uncontrollable outbreaks of the pathogen can lead to extremely dangerous and severe food poisoning cases. But for the most part, it’s not as problematic as other pathogens.
Salmonella, on the other hand, isn't as immune-friendly as it tops the list as the most common foodborne cause of most outbreaks in the U.S. Although it’s often associated with poultry factories, it can be found in almost any type of food including fresh produce. One of the largest American salmonella outbreaks involved salmonella tainted cantaloupe. Salmonella doesn't only affect adults. If the bacteria is on your hands, you can infect your pets. And if it’s not cleaned correctly from surfaces, infants and young children can inhale the pathogen. With limited or weak immune systems, the bacteria can cause severe health conditions if not treated immediately.
Symptoms and Solutions
The initial cause of food poisoning can often be simple weakness followed by nausea or flu symptoms. Sudden stomach pains followed by harsh vomiting should be an instant warning that it’s a potentially serious condition. Diarrhea, headaches or migraines, and fever with alternating chills and sweating may last a day or up to a week. In most cases, the sooner you can get to a doctor, the quicker you’ll feel better. But in some cases, especially in those who put off that essential medical step, symptoms can get worse as the bacteria reproduces and shuts down the immune system. Although that is relatively uncommon compared to passing the pathogen within a week, it does occur…especially in children, the elderly, and those with already weak immune systems.
Rapid Microbial Methods can ensure dangerous pathogens are controlled and eliminated before arriving at your market. Pharmaceutical microbiology utilizes specialized microbiological instruments to count and contain the pathogens that can lead to bacterial or viral outbreak and widespread panic. In today’s society, it’s absolutely paramount that manufacturers submit their products for testing. Items checked and passed receive the microbiological quality assurance so necessary for the health and welfare of your family and loved ones.
New governmental food safety requirements help reduce the cut corners so often associated with big business food manufacturers. And cases such as the recent DeCoster lawsuit are harsh but necessary reminders of what happens when safety rules are broken. Food poisoning is far too common and disruptive to too many lives. You simply don’t have to take it lying down. Demand your food is microbiologically tested. Contact Biolumix to learn more about rapid microbial methods.
Biolumix
3928 Varsity Dr.
Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone: (734) 984-3100
Fax: 734-222-1830
Email: info@mybiolumix.com
http://www.mybiolumix.com/
https://plus.google.com/103841943418192727689/
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