If you have seen a headline blaming one restaurant chain for most food poisoning, it is worth checking the facts. In the United States, the biggest cause of foodborne illness is norovirus, not a single business.
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The short answer
The CDC estimates that norovirus causes about 58% of foodborne illnesses in the US where the cause is known, which makes it the leading cause of foodborne illness.
How norovirus spreads
Norovirus spreads easily. It can be passed on by infected food workers, through contaminated surfaces, and in food that is handled after cooking.
What about bacteria?
Among bacteria, Salmonella is a leading cause of foodborne hospitalisations. Campylobacter and E. coli are also significant causes of foodborne illness.
How big is the problem?
Overall, the CDC estimates about 48 million foodborne illnesses, 128,000 hospitalisations and 3,000 deaths every year in the US.
Is one restaurant chain to blame?
No. No single restaurant chain is the biggest cause of foodborne illness. Outbreaks linked to specific businesses are individual events that are investigated, and genuine outbreak findings are published by the CDC, FDA and local health departments, with evidence.
How to spot a fabricated outbreak story
Invented statistics that blame a named company, and quotes attributed to officials that cannot be found in official sources, are hallmarks of fabricated content. Before believing or sharing a food-safety story, check the official outbreak pages of the CDC, FDA or your local health department.
This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.