With summer comes a rise in foodborne illness as warmer temperatures and outdoor cooking conditions help bacteria and parasites thrive. In fact, one-third of all foodborne illness cases in the U.S. are reported between June and August. While many cases are mild, they can be serious for children, seniors, and other vulnerable individuals.

A new analysis from Trace One, based on four years of finalized CDC data, ranks Tennessee as having the 5th lowest rate of foodborne illness in the country, with 37.8 cases per 100,000 residents annually. The state sees an average of 2,614 reported cases each year.

Among the eight most commonly tracked foodborne pathogens, E. coli (STEC) was reported at a higher-than-average rate in Tennessee compared to national trends. This strain can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms and, in some cases, kidney damage.

Nationally, Campylobacter and Salmonella are the most frequently reported foodborne pathogens, often linked to contaminated meats, eggs, unpasteurized dairy, and produce. In 2024, Campylobacter had a national rate of 23.4 cases per 100,000, followed by Salmonella at 17.9.

Less common pathogens like Shigella, STEC, Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, Vibrio, and Listeria pose significant risks despite lower case numbers. Listeria and Vibrio infections are especially dangerous, often leading to hospitalization or death.

Summer months see the highest spike in reported cases, with August leading at 12.4% of annual cases, followed by June (11.3%) and July (9.4%). This seasonal trend is driven by heat, increased outdoor food prep, and more fresh produce consumption. Cyclospora, a parasite tied to fresh produce, peaks sharply in July, with nearly half of annual cases reported in that month alone.

Geographic trends show the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest with the highest rates, including South Dakota (92.2), Nebraska (74.4), and Minnesota (66.6). These higher numbers may be influenced by more robust testing and reporting practices in those states.

In contrast, Tennessee’s lower rate reflects not only a lower disease burden but also possible differences in testing access and public health infrastructure. The CDC notes that national surveillance captures only federally notifiable, lab-confirmed illnesses, meaning common causes like norovirus and Clostridium perfringens are often underreported.

• Read the full report from Trace One HERE.