The Pennsylvania State University The College of Agricultural Sciences
Animal Issues Plant Issues Food Safety Issues Human Health Issues Environmental Issues Emergency Readiness
CAS | Health & Emerging Issues Home | Food Safety Issues | Botulism
Botulism
What Is Botulism
Botulism is a rare but serious paralytic illness caused by a nerve toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. There are three main kinds of botulism. Foodborne botulism is caused by eating foods that contain the botulism toxin. Wound botulism is caused by toxin produced from a wound infected with Clostridium botulinum. Infant botulism is caused by consuming the spores of the botulinum bacteria, which then grow in the intestines and release toxin. All forms of botulism can be fatal and are considered medical emergencies. Foodborne botulism can be especially dangerous because many people can be poisoned by eating a contaminated food.
from PA Department of Health Botulsim Fact Sheet
Related Information
Botulism and Silage
Bad Bug Book: Botulism
Home Food Preservation

General Information:

Penn State Food Safety Information

Government Info:

APHIS
CDC
EDEN
FDA
FSIS
USDA
WHO
CAS Links:

Ag Economics & Rural Sociology
Dairy & Animal Science
Food Science
Poultry Science
For more information, please contact:
   
   
   
Copyright Information
This publication is available in alternative media on request.
Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce.
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Health and Emerging Issues The College of Agricultural Sciences