Other Pathogens

Parasite

Parasites live in or on animals and people and cause illness when the food infected with the parasite is not cooked to a temperature high enough or frozen to a temperature cold enough to kill the parasite. Trichinella (found in pork and some game meats) and roundworms (found in raw fish) are examples of parasites found in food.

Protozoa

Protozoa are one-celled animals that may be found in water. The use of water from unsafe sources can lead to illness. Giardia lamblia is an example of protozoa that may be found in water from rivers, lakes, streams, and shallow wells. Food washed in water containing Giardia lamblia that is served without any further cooking (such as salad greens) can cause illness.

Fungi

Fungi grow on decaying organic matter. Many fungi are harmless or beneficial, but some, such as mold that grows on spoiled food, can be harmful and remain even after cutting or scraping the visible mold off the food.