What is the most common bacterial cause of foodborne disease in the United States?

• A. E. coli O157:H7
• B. Salmonella
• C. Listeria monocytogenes
• D. Campylobacter

Answer: (B)

Salmonella is the most common bacterial cause of foodborne disease in the United States because it has a wide range of animal reservoirs and can contaminate many foods, including poultry, eggs, beef, dairy, fruits and vegetables, and even processed or prepared foods. This broad exposure means many people encounter the pathogen through everyday meals, leading to a high overall number of illnesses, not just outbreaks. Other bacteria can cause significant disease, especially in particular groups or outbreak situations—E. coli O157:H7 is especially associated with severe illness, Listeria with risk to pregnant individuals and older adults, and Campylobacter is also a common cause—but their total case counts are typically lower than Salmonella’s.