Beyond the Plate: Surprising Ways Foodborne Illnesses Develop

When most people hear the term “foodborne illness,” they immediately think of undercooked chicken, tainted lettuce, or spoiled leftovers. While contaminated food is indeed the leading source of outbreaks, it’s not the only way harmful microbes find their way into our lives. Pathogens like Salmonella , E. coli , Listeria , and norovirus are everywhere , in the environment, on surfaces, in water, and even on people. Understanding these alternate routes of exposure is essential for preventing illness and protecting public health.

Here are some of the unexpected ways foodborne illnesses can develop beyond food itself.

1. Contaminated Water Sources

Water is one of the most common yet overlooked carriers of pathogens. Drinking wat

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