360 Training Food Handlers Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of foodborne illness?

1. Fatigue

2. Nausea

3. Increased appetite

4. Headaches

The correct answer is: Nausea

Nausea is a common symptom of foodborne illness because it is the body's response to digesting harmful pathogens or toxins found in contaminated food or beverages. When a person consumes something that poses a health risk, the gastrointestinal tract may react by trying to expel the harmful substance. This often leads to feelings of discomfort, and nausea is one of the primary symptoms that indicate a potential foodborne illness. Other symptoms may accompany nausea, such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever, further contributing to the understanding that nausea is a key indicator of foodborne pathogens affecting the body. In contrast, symptoms like increased appetite do not align with the body's response to foodborne illnesses, as the body typically experiences a decrease in appetite due to discomfort.