Foodborne illness can be caused by eating and drinking contaminated food and beverages, or through allergic reaction. Health Canada estimates that over 11 million Canadians suffer from foodborne illness each year. Foodborne illness can result in millions of dollars in lost revenues; lost wages and productivity, and in some cases loss of life. Therefore, it is important that measures are in place to prevent the occurrence of food-related illnesses. In the event food borne illness does occur, it is important to notify your manager and the local public health unit.

Watch the "Kitchen Nightmares" video to your right to get a live glimpse of a foodborne illness due to negligence in a restaurant. Think about how you would feel as the customer, and what power you have as a food handler to prevent it from happening. Let's take a closer look at foodborne illness, how food can become contaminated, and some of the common foodborne pathogens of concern. Let's get started!

(*Warning: The following video may contain the occasional use of strong language. Please feel free to skip viewing at your discretion.)