Library / Germs & toxins from microbes

Bacillus cereus

A spore-forming bacterium linked to food left at room temperature, especially rice and leftovers.

Bacillus cereus can form hardy spores and produce toxins. FoodSafety.gov links it to rice, leftovers, sauces, and soups left out too long at room temperature.

Two illness patterns are described: one with watery diarrhea and cramps (6–15 hours), another with nausea and vomiting (30 minutes to 6 hours). Illness usually lasts about 24 hours.

Refrigerate cooked food promptly in shallow containers. Keep hot foods above 140°F and cold foods at 40°F or below.

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