Germs

Germs are invisible to the eye except under a powerful microscope. Hence the name microorganisms or microbes. Microbes can be grouped according to their different structures. Two common groups of microbes are viruses and bacteria. Not all bacteria are harmful; indeed, many are essential for life. The bacteria, viruses, and other microbes that cause illness are commonly known as germs.

Germs found in food can lead to food poisoning that can be dangerous and can kill, though this is rare. They are very hard to detect since they do not usually affect the taste, appearance, or smell of food.

Germs can get into our food at any point in the food chain, from the time when an animal or product is in the field, to the moment when food is put on to the table. If germs are allowed to survive and multiply, they can cause illness when that food is eaten.