Identifying vulnerable populations at risk of foodborne infection: People with diabetes mellitus

Individuals with compromised immunity have an increased risk of foodborne infection; however, many of these individuals are not aware that they are more vulnerable to foodborne infections. Consequently, such individuals need to become aware of their increased risk and of food safety practices necessary to reduce the potential risk of foodborne disease. Consumer food safety research suggests that highly focused, targeted interventions are the most effective means of consumer food safety education. Interventions that enable immunocompromised individuals to understand their increased susceptibility to infection may empower this vulnerable group to adopt risk-reducing food safety practices. The aim of this article is to explore the association between foodborne infection and diabetes mellitus to increase the understanding of this underrepresented group within food safety research. Findings may help inform the development of future food safety educational interventions specifically intended for people living with diabetes mellitus.