Resources for the Public

What is Foodborne Illness?

Foodborne illness is a sickness that occurs when people eat or drink harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, parasites, viruses, or chemical containments found in some food or water.

To learn more about foodborne illness, symptoms, and germs please visit: Foodborne Germs and Illnesses | CDC

Foodborne Complaints

If you have a food safety concern or feel you might have gotten a foodborne illness from an establishment in Tennessee, please click on the foodborne complaint button.

Reportable Diseases

Enteric diseases are intestinal illnesses that are caused by micro-organisms such as viruses, bacteria and parasites. Exposure to these micro-organisms typically result from consuming contaminated food or water, and some can spread from person-to-person. Most enteric diseases are mild and only impact daily activities for a day or two. However, some cases may be severe and can result in hospitalization.

Preventing Foodborne Illness

There are many things that you can do to prevent foodborne illness. Learn what you can do to prepare, serve, and store food safely.