Staphylococcus aureus (or Staph aureus) is a type of bacteria commonly found on the skin and hair as well as in the noses and throats of people and animals.
•Staphylococcus can cause food poisoning when a food handler contaminates food and then the food is not properly refrigerated.
• Other sources of food contamination include the equipment and surfaces on which food is prepared. These bacteria multiply quickly at room temperature to produce a toxin that causes illness.
•Staphylococcus is killed by cooking and pasteurization.
•Foods that are made with hand contact and require no additional cooking, such as:
•Salads, such as ham, egg, tuna, chicken, potato, and macaroni
•Bakery products, such as cream-filled pastries, cream pies, and chocolate éclairs,Sandwiches
Symptoms
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, severe abdominal cramps, mild fever