Image Source: telegraph.co.uk
In the past, there have been cases of large scale food recalls due to high levels of dangerous contamination. E. coli has been the culprit of many of these food safety issues in the news. Here are 7 facts that you should know about this rod-shaped bacterium.
1) Resounding Research
Currently, E. coli is the most thoroughly studied species in microbiology. Good news is that most strains of Escherichia coli are actually harmless.
2) Not All E. Coli is Bad
E. coli already resides in the bodies of many people as it is commonly found in the lower intestine of warm-blooded organisms. E. coli normally colonizes the gastrointestinal tract of a human within 40 hours of birth and brings some benefit to the host including prevention of the establishment of pathogenic bacteria within the intestine.
3) Gross Science
This type of bacterium is also described as ‘normally found in fecal matter,’ which assigns a truly dangerous and downright disgusting connotation.
4) Dangerous Waters
Less harmful strains may lead to relatively brief diarrhea that most adults can recover from within a few days but young children and older adults can develop a life-threatening form of kidney failure. Other strains, however, may be especially dangerous as they cause some serious gastrointestinal diseases, severe abdominal cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting.
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5) Prevent this Pest!
Most food products available have passed food safety standards, but consumers are advised to be cautious of food products that seem to be untested. Diebel Laboratories is an International Corporation of food-testing laboratories that helps keep food safe for consumers.There are many potential sources of exposure for e.coli including the most common way: contaminated food. Food like undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized milk, unwashed fresh produce and restaurant meals can be susceptible to e. coli. Personal contact is another way to be exposed, especially when hands are not washed properly.
6) Call the Doctor
If you think you have been exposed, your doctor will have to send a sample of your stool to be tested in a laboratory. They will then be able to confirm the diagnosis and identify any specific toxins.
7) Get Well
For most people, the best option is to get plenty of rest and drink lots of clear liquids to avoid dehydration. Do not take anti-diarrheal medication, as it slows the digestive system and the toxins will not be expelled. Add food back into your diet at a gradual pace and avoid dairy products, fatty foods, and seasoned foods.
Find more information on contaminant detection at www.deibellabs.com.
