Index >> Microbiology of Food >> Staphylococcal Poisoning

Staphylococcal Poisoning - It is the most common type of food poisoning. Certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus produce a potent enterotoxin. Injestion of food containing this toxin causes a sudden onset of illness within 3 to 4 hours. Symptoms include nausea, vomitting and diarrhoea. Recovery is rapid, usually within 24 to 48 hours. Death rarely occurs.

The organisms are widely distributed upon the skin and mucous membranes of the human body. People who handle foods contaminate them ignorantly of carelessly. Foods most commonly involved include those which are eaten cold, e.g. salads, bakery products, hams, pressed meat, and dairy products.