Which of the following is a term for the occurrence of two or more cases of the same symptoms after consumption of the same food?

The term for the occurrence of two or more cases of the same symptoms after consumption of the same food is referred to as a foodborne disease outbreak. This definition is crucial in the field of food safety and public health because it indicates a clearly identifiable pattern that suggests the food in question may be responsible for the health issues. Identifying outbreaks allows for focused investigations, timely public health interventions, and prevention of further cases.

In contrast, the other terms have distinct meanings. Foodborne illness refers to the specific health conditions experienced by individuals affected, rather than the collective occurrence that defines an outbreak. A foodborne complaint relates more to grievances made by individuals about certain foods, without necessarily indicating that multiple cases have been linked to a single source. Food contamination refers to the presence of harmful substances or microorganisms in food, which may or may not lead to illness or an outbreak. Understanding these distinctions reinforces the importance of monitoring and responding to food safety issues effectively.