The fundamental difference between food poisoning and epidemic infectious diseases is that food poisoning is not contagious, while epidemic infectious diseases are contagious. Food poisoning is a non-contagious, acute or sub-acute disease that occurs when food containing biological or chemical toxic or hazardous substances is mistakenly consumed, or when toxic or hazardous substances are taken as food. Food poisoning is not contagious, has a sudden onset, and is mostly characterized by acute gastroenteritis symptoms. Food poisoning should be treated in a timely manner by going to the hospital for gastric lavage or inducing vomiting. Epidemic infectious diseases, which are diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms, are contagious and can spread among the population. There are clear pathogens, susceptible groups and modes of transmission. The fundamental difference between food poisoning and epidemics is that food poisoning is not contagious, whereas epidemics are contagious. Therefore, people suffering from epidemic infectious diseases are advised to seek timely hospitalization.