The duration of food poisoning varies depending on the cause, but most people recover within 12 to 48 hours. In some cases, symptoms may last up to a week or even longer.

Food poisoning occurs after consuming contaminated food or drinks. In the United States, about one in six people experience some form of food poisoning each year.

Common symptoms of food poisoning

Food poisoning can cause a variety of symptoms, such as:

  • Diarrhea

  • Fever and chills

  • Nausea

  • Stomach pain

  • Vomiting

additional symptoms
Depending on the specific cause, symptoms may resemble an allergic reaction, including rash, swelling, or headache.

Botulism

Botulism is a serious type of food poisoning that affects the nervous system. It can be caused by eating improperly canned or fermented foods. Infants may develop botulism from ingesting bacterial spores found in soil or honey.

symptoms of botulism

  • Blurred or double vision

  • Headache

  • Paralysis

  • Drooping eyelids (ptosis)

  • Tingling or numbness in the skin

  • Slurred speech

How long does food poisoning last?

The onset and duration of symptoms vary based on the type of organism involved. Below is a general timeline:

Organism Onset Duration Common Sources
Staphylococcus aureus 30 min to 8 hours 24–48 hours Deli meats, cold salads, pastries
Salmonella 6 hours to 6 days 4–7 days Undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, raw produce
Norovirus 12–48 hours 12–60 hours Shellfish, raw produce, contaminated water
Clostridium botulinum 12–72 hours Variable Improperly canned foods
Campylobacter jejuni 2–5 days 2–10 days Undercooked poultry, contaminated water
E. coli 3–4 days 5–10 days Raw produce, sprouts, contaminated water
Cyclospora cayetanensis 1–2 weeks May relapse over time Fresh herbs, raw produce
Listeria 2 weeks Variable Unpasteurized milk, soft cheese, deli meats, sprouts

Risk factors

Certain individuals are more vulnerable to food poisoning and may experience more severe symptoms.

higher-risk groups include

  • Adults over 65

  • Children under 5

  • People with weakened immune systems

  • Pregnant individuals

How to manage symptoms at home

Most mild cases resolve without medical treatment. Focus on rest and hydration to recover.

Hydrate

prevent dehydration
Diarrhea and vomiting can lead to fluid loss, which can prolong symptoms and cause complications.

symptoms of dehydration

  • Dark urine

  • Dizziness

  • Dry skin or mouth

  • Fatigue

  • Extreme thirst

  • Sweating

  • Reduced urination

in children
Look for signs like tearless crying, drowsiness, or irritability. Severe dehydration can develop quickly.

what to drink
Rehydrate with water, diluted juices, broths, and sports drinks to restore fluids and electrolytes.

Eat bland foods

soothing the stomach
The BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—can help ease digestive upset. Saltine crackers are another gentle option.

reintroduce nutrients
As symptoms fade, gradually add more nutritious foods to rebuild strength.

Consider medications

treatment options
Anti-diarrheal medications like Imodium or Pepto-Bismol may help but should be used only under medical advice.

probiotics
These beneficial bacteria may help restore digestive balance but should also be taken with medical guidance.

when medications are needed
In some cases, your provider may prescribe:

  • Antibiotics for bacterial infections

  • Antiemetics for nausea

  • Antiparasitics for parasites

  • Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) with electrolytes and glucose

When to seek care

Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Bloody stools

  • Diarrhea lasting more than three days

  • Fever over 102°F (38.9°C)

  • Persistent vomiting

  • Signs of dehydration

possible complications
In rare cases, untreated food poisoning can cause long-term damage to the brain, nerves, or kidneys. Pregnant people may face risks to the baby. Complications can take weeks or months to resolve—or become permanent.

Prevention tips

Practice proper food handling and hygiene to reduce your risk of food poisoning.

clean
Wash hands and surfaces before cooking. Clean raw produce before use.

separate
Keep raw meat away from vegetables and cooked foods.

cook
Ensure meats, eggs, and seafood are cooked to safe internal temperatures.

refrigerate
Store leftovers promptly. Never leave perishable food out for more than two hours (or one hour if the weather is hot).

A quick review

Most food poisoning cases are mild and go away in a few days to a week. Symptoms and duration depend on the cause and individual risk factors.

Following good hygiene and food safety practices can help prevent food poisoning. If symptoms become severe or you belong to a high-risk group, seek medical attention promptly.