Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What is the difference between a foodborne infection and a foodborne intoxication?

1. Both result from consuming contaminated foods

2. Infection is due to pathogens; intoxication is due to toxins

3. Infection occurs more frequently than intoxication

4. Intoxication affects more people than infection

The correct answer is: Infection is due to pathogens; intoxication is due to toxins

The distinction between foodborne infection and foodborne intoxication primarily hinges on the underlying causes related to pathogens and toxins. Foodborne infections occur when a person consumes food that is contaminated with harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites, which then multiply in the gastrointestinal tract causing illness. This type of illness often requires the pathogen itself to be ingested and can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and fever after an incubation period. On the other hand, foodborne intoxication arises when food contains harmful toxins produced by microorganisms, rather than the organisms themselves. In this case, consuming the toxin can lead to immediate symptoms, often more severe, as the toxins can affect the body without the need for the pathogens to be present or to multiply. Thus, understanding this vital difference informs how health professionals handle food safety and patient education, as well as the measures taken to prevent and respond to foodborne illnesses.