Food poisoning, also called foodborne illness, is illness caused by eating contaminated food. Infectious organisms — including bacteria, viruses and parasites — or their toxins are the most common causes of food poisoning. Food poisoning is extremely common, but its symptoms and severity can vary, making it hard to identify. This article lists 10 symptoms of food poisoning. The classical symptoms of food poisoning include diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Children, elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with low immunity are at high risk of food poisoning. Common Food Poisoning Symptoms Cramps in your stomach and gut, diarrhea, and vomiting may start as early as 1 hour after eating tainted food and as late as 10 days or longer.