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Camping and hiking are great ways to exercise and appreciate nature. But they also create hunger - and food that is not packed properly and handled safely can create foodborne illness.

Bacteria are a member of a large group of unicellular microorganisms - some of which can cause human disease. Although most bacteria are harmless or often beneficial, some bacteria are pathogenic, or those that can pose a threat to human health or cause illness. Bacteria and viruses are responsible for most foodborne illnesses and are the biggest threat to food safety.

Summer months brings out everyone's barbecue grills. But, in warmer temperatures - additional food safety care must be taken because bacteria multiply faster. Following a few simple principles and guidelines can prevent a food illness.

Biological food hazards are biological agents that can pose a threat to human health and include bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Bacteria and viruses are responsible for most foodborne illnesses and are the biggest threat to food safety. The most common result of infections from biological agents is gastroenteritis - inflammation of the stomach and small intestine. Also called the “stomach flu”, gastroenteritis is generally acquired through consumption of contaminated food or water, or through direct contact with an object, surface, or person - as a result of poor sanitation and/or hygiene.

A food recall occurs when there is reason to believe that a food may cause consumers to become ill. Get the latest food recall alerts from the FDA.