E. Coli

Topic summary contributed by volunteer(s): Eric

E. coli exposure may lead to health problems such as irritable bowel syndrome and urinary tract infections caused by contaminated chicken. But cranberry juice may help prevent bladder infections. Turkey meat may also contain dangerous amounts of the E. coli bacteria. Meat glue, an enzyme used to hold different pieces of meat together, might harbor E. coli bacteria. Handling money could also result in E. coli exposure due to bacteria fecal contamination. Those undergoing chemotherapy should be cautious of eating potentially E. Coli contaminated foods such as undercooked eggs, meat, dairy, and sprouts.

The potentially deadly toxin produced by E. coli O157:H7, which can shut down the kidneys of children, attaches to Neu5Gc, a foreign meat molecule that may contribute to the progression of cancer and heart disease.

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