San José, Costa Rica. July 2015.

The consumption of expired foods may increase the risk of causing certain conditions or diseases, for example, botulism, salmonellosis, diarrhea, vomiting, listeria infections and hepatitis A, among others, which will depend on the type of food, the amount ingested the microorganism and the health condition of the person.

According to Natalia Quirós Barrantes, nutritionist of the Clínica Bíblica Hospital, “consuming products that have expired represents a risk since foods can change both their organoleptic characteristics as well as acquire pathogen microorganisms, which could become harmful for your health.”

The reaction before the consumption of foods that have expired is going to be different in children, adults and senior adults, since the immune system of all persons is different and varies even more depending on the age and health conditions of each individual, so that senior adults, children, teenagers, pregnant women and sick people can have reactions of greater intensity with regard to food intoxications.

Expired food still safe for consumption may not have the same characteristics since as time goes by, the quality of the foods is modified and could give way to the growth of microorganisms, causing intoxication to whoever consumes it.

These foods may cause stomach disorders, generally, gastritis, abdominal distention, vomit, headaches, diarrhea and sweating. The seriousness of the problem is going to depend on the kind of intoxication and on the microorganisms involved, since some toxins release certain bacteria that may cause complication’s and lethal diseases.

It is important to always verify the date of expiration. If the food is not packaged and we cannot corroborate this, we should assess the appearance, odor and color of the product. Although sometimes, this does not guarantee the quality and safety of the product. One should have special care with perishable foods,” commented Quirós.

Always, when you feel any discomfort or when the patient does not show an improvement of the symptoms mentioned above, you should seek medical assistance to prevent any complication.

For further information or for requesting medical attention, please call the number 2522-1000, or write to the email citas@clinicabiblica.com or contact us via chat at the website: www.clinicabiblica.com.