What should you know about germs that are already in the food?

Germs, including bacteria and viruses, can be present in food before it is consumed, often due to contamination during production, handling, or storage. Some germs can cause foodborne illnesses, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Proper cooking, storage, and hygiene practices are essential to minimize the risks associated with these germs. It's important to be aware that some pathogens can survive even cooking if the food is not heated to the appropriate temperature.