Which statement best defines foodborne illness?

• A. An infection or poisoning that develops in the gut from spoiled food alone and never includes exposures to environmental chemicals like heavy metals or pesticide residues.
• B. A sickness that occurs only when people eat raw meat or seafood and always requires hospitalization, typically caused by bacteria or parasites that are always visible in the food.
• C. A condition resulting exclusively from allergic reactions to foods such as nuts or dairy that is unrelated to microorganisms or chemical contaminants.
• D. Illness caused by ingesting harmful substances in food or water, including disease-causing organisms and chemical toxins.

Answer: (D)