Nickname:  B. cereus

Morphology:  Gram-negative rod

Habitat: Lives naturally in animals; infection in humans is usually linked to foods of origin or to direct contact with animals or contaminated water.

Disease or illness: Causes intestinal infections with diarrhea, fever, and severe stomach cramps.

Who is at risk: Anyone who eats food or drinks water contaminated with the bacteria is at risk. Infants, the elderly, or persons with a weakened immune system are at increased risk.

Avoidance techniques: Cook rice and grains thoroughly; store food in the refrigerator.

“Be serious about cooking and chilling your rice and grains, or you could end up with stomach pains.”