What is a common symptom of a foodborne illness?

A common symptom of a foodborne illness includes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms are directly related to the body's reaction to pathogens or harmful substances present in contaminated food or drink. They often occur as the digestive system attempts to rid itself of the toxins or infectious agents, making these symptoms key indicators of foodborne illness.

While headache, fever, and fatigue can also occur in some foodborne illnesses, they are not as consistently associated with food contamination as the gastrointestinal symptoms listed in the correct answer. Thus, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps are more notably recognized as primary symptoms that suggest a person may be suffering from a foodborne illness. This thorough understanding helps food handlers and food safety professionals identify and respond to potential outbreaks effectively.