Question

which foodborne illness is an intoxication (rather than an infection)?

a. norovirus

b. clostridium perfringens

c. toxoplasma gondii

d. staphylococcus aureus

Explanation:

Foodborne intoxication is caused by toxins produced by microbes, while infection is from microbial growth. Staphylococcus aureus produces enterotoxins that cause intoxication. Norovirus, Clostridium perfringens (infection - intoxication overlap but often infection), and Toxoplasma gondii are infectious agents. So S. aureus causes intoxication.

Answer:

d. Staphylococcus aureus