Foodborne disease in OECD countries : present state and economic costs.

Foodborne disease caused by microbiological hazards and chemical contaminants continues to be a growing public health concern. Economic costs associated with foodborne disease represent a significant economic burden on consumers, the food industry and governments. This report provides information on the incidence and costs of foodborne disease. There is a need to improve interdisciplinary approaches so that a better understanding of public health issues, including their economic consequences, will allow policy makers to design appropriate prevention strategies to lower the risk.