E. coli
E. coli is a foodborne bacterium that normally lives in the intestines of people and animals.
Food poisoning bacteria: E. coli
What food sources can it be found in?
- Raw or undercooked meat and poultry or related products (eg gravy)
- Raw seafood products
- Unpasteurised milk or products made from it (eg cheese)
- Contaminated water
What are the symptoms?
- Diarrhoea (can be bloody)
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
- Kidney failure
How can you avoid/control it?
- Prevent This happens when bacteria get transferred from raw foods to other foods, especially if they are to be eaten without cooking. For example, cross-contamination can occur if meat juices from a steak on the second shelf of a fridge drip down onto a salad on the shelf below.
- Thoroughly cook all meat and meat products
- Wash hands after touching any animals/pets
- Drink pasteurised milk and treated water