The most important kinds of biological hazard to consider are microorganisms. A microorganism is a tiny, usually single-celled organism that can be seen only with a microscope. A microorganism that can cause disease is called a pathogen. Although these organisms sometimes occur in clusters large enough to be seen with the naked eye, they are not usually visible. This is one reason why they can be so dangerous. Just because food looks good doesn’t mean it is safe.
Four kinds of microorganisms can contaminate food and cause illness: bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Most food-borne diseases are caused by bacteria, and these are the pathogens we focus on here. Many of the measures we take to protect food from bacteria also help prevent the other three kinds of microorganisms.