Can you get food poising from banana bread?

It is possible to get food poisoning, medically termed as 'foodborne illness', from banana bread, especially if it has not been properly stored or prepared. Like any other food item, banana bread can be contaminated with harmful bacteria or moulds that can cause foodborne illnesses.

Here are the main reasons why banana bread can cause food poisoning:

1. Improper storage: Banana bread, especially when homemade, can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria if not stored properly. Leaving it at room temperature for an extended period (over two hours) can allow bacteria to grow and multiply.

2. Cross-contamination: Using contaminated utensils, cutting boards, or surfaces during the preparation of banana bread can lead to cross-contamination. For instance, if you cut raw meat or poultry on a chopping board and then use the same board to slice bananas for your bread without properly cleaning it, there's a risk of transferring harmful bacteria to the banana bread.

3. Undercooking: Banana bread should be cooked at the proper temperature and for the recommended duration to ensure that it reaches an internal temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria. Undercooked banana bread may contain live bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.

4. Mould growth: Mould can grow on banana bread if it is stored in a warm, humid environment, or if it has been left out for too long. Consuming banana bread with mould can lead to food poisoning as mould produces toxic compounds called mycotoxins.

Common symptoms of food poisoning from banana bread can include:

- Abdominal pain

- Nausea and vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Fever

- Chills

- Headache

- Muscle aches

If you experience these symptoms after eating banana bread, it's important to seek medical attention immediately, especially if you belong to a high-risk group such as young children, pregnant women, or individuals with compromised immune systems.

To prevent food poisoning from banana bread, make sure to follow proper food safety practices, including storing it in the refrigerator, practising good hygiene while preparing it, cooking it thoroughly, and checking for signs of spoilage or mould growth before consuming.