Reports of bacterial food poisoning in the Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia: a one - year retrospective study

In this retrospective study, the incidents of bacterial food poisoning in the Riyadh region were analysed in the period from August 1989 to July 1990. There were 41 incidents with 296 cases; 25 [61%] of the incidents occurred during the summer months. 'Kabsa' [rice and meat or chicken] was the food item most incriminated [40.6%] in bacterial food poisoning incidents followed by milk [27.6%]. Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella species were the most common bacterial food poisoning agents identified in the incidents. No chemical food poisoning has been reported during the year of study. A survey of food institutions showed a lack of health measures. The study has shown that the problem of food poisoning in the region is significant. A nationwide health education programme of food hygiene is needed. Moreover, continuous inspections of food institutions should be undertaken