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Food Poisoning / Foodborne Illness

Each year, thousands of New York City residents become sick from consuming foods or drinks that are contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses or parasites. The most common sources of food poisoning include raw or undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, shellfish and unpasteurized milk.

Fruits and vegetables may become contaminated if:

  • They are handled or processed in facilities that are not kept clean.
  • They come into contact with contaminated fertilizer
  • They are watered or washed with contaminated water.

Contamination may also occur if food is incorrectly handled by an infected food worker, or if it touches other contaminated food.

The symptoms, onset and length of foodborne illness depend on the type of microbe and how much of it is swallowed. Symptoms usually include vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps. If you think you became sick after eating or drinking a contaminated item, call 311 or submit an online complaint form.

Call your doctor if you experience a high fever (over 101.5°F), blood in stool, prolonged vomiting, dehydration or diarrhea for more than three days.

Get more tips on preventing foodborne illness.

Types of Food-Related Illnesses:

Additional Resources

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