The most common foodborne illness is _______.

The most common foodborne illness is Norovirus. Norovirus is highly contagious and is often associated with outbreaks in settings such as restaurants, cruise ships, and schools. It is responsible for a significant number of foodborne illness cases worldwide due to its ability to spread easily and cause gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.

While Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Listeria are also significant pathogens that cause foodborne illnesses, they tend to result in fewer overall cases compared to Norovirus. Salmonella and Campylobacter are often linked to raw or undercooked poultry, eggs, and other foods, while Listeria is typically associated with ready-to-eat deli meats and unpasteurized dairy products. However, the sheer volume of cases attributed to Norovirus highlights its prevalence as the most common cause of foodborne illness. Understanding Norovirus's impact is crucial when managing food safety, particularly in environments prone to outbreaks.