How long it takes for food poisoning to develop after ingestion depends on the type of poisoning. In general, the first symptoms may appear two to six hours after the spoilt food has been ingested. Occasionally, poisoning can occur after only a few minutes or only after a few days. Pathological food poisoning can last up to ten days. Some types can also be fatal.

 

Fast-acting bacteria

Some types of food poisoning act very quickly, sometimes even immediately after digestion. Staphylococcus aureus is a form that occurs within up to 6 hours of consumption. This food poisoning is transmitted through meat, seafood, spreads and high-salt foods. The bacteria enter the body through the nose and mouth or through superficial wounds on the skin. Symptoms of this poisoning include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Clostridium botulinum is a bacterium whose spores require little oxygen and produce a heat-sensitive toxin. It can be found in soil, plants, fish and marine debris. The bacteria are transmitted through home-made tinned food. Symptoms include visual disturbances, respiratory distress and possible death.

 

Slow-acting bacteria

Some types of food poisoning can take 12 to 24 hours for symptoms to appear. The best known form is salmonella poisoning, which affects the intestinal tract. Salmonella can be transmitted through protein-rich foods that are raw or undercooked. Salmonella is usually found in meat, poultry, fish and eggs. Typical symptoms are diarrhoea, intestinal cramps, vomiting, headaches and fever.

Clostridium perfringens is a bacterium that forms in heat-stable spores and is found in dust, soil and in the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals. This bacterium is usually transmitted through meat and poultry, sauces and brawn. Typical symptoms are diarrhoea and abdominal cramps.

 

The safest way to avoid food poisoning is to cook all food well, especially meat and eggs.