Salmonella bacteria come primarily from the intestines of people, animals, and birds. The most common sources of Salmonella infection in humans are consuming food or water contaminated by feces. This contamination often occurs through raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and unpasteurized dairy products. Fruits and vegetables can also become contaminated if irrigated or washed with contaminated water or through cross-contamination in the kitchen. Additionally, animals and pets, especially birds and reptiles, can carry Salmonella bacteria on their bodies or in their feces, which can infect humans through direct or indirect contact. Improper food handling and hygiene practices are also frequent routes of spread.
Key sources include:
- Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, and seafood.
- Raw or undercooked eggs.
- Unpasteurized milk and dairy products.
- Contaminated fruits and vegetables.
- Contact with infected animals or their environments.
- Cross-contamination from infected surfaces or hands.
Salmonella bacteria do not usually change the taste, smell, or appearance of food, making them hard to detect without testing.
