Symptom> Vomit, Diarrhea, Stomachache
There are 6 conditions in which pathogens need to grow. FAT TOM is a common term used to help remember these conditions. It would be in your best interest to know these conditions and train others working in your establishment to memorize these conditions, and know the importance of this information.
Food: In order to grow, pathogens need energy. The energy from foods come from carbohydrates and proteins.
Acidity: Food with little or no acidity are foods that pathogens grow best. Unfortunately, that describes most foods we eat.
Temperature: Pathogens grow very well in foods that are held in the temperature danger zone. (between 41 degrees F-135 degrees F).
Time: Pathogens need time to grow. If foods are in the danger temperature zone for 4 hours or longer, they will grow to levels high enough to potentially make someone sick.
Oxygen: Pathogens can grow with or without oxygen.
Moisture: Pathogens have to have moisture to grow.