"Food microbiology encompasses the study of microorganisms which have both beneficial and deleterious effects on the quality and safety of raw and processed meat, poultry, and egg products. Food microbiology focuses on the general biology of the microorganisms that are found in foods including: their growth characteristics, identification, and pathogenesis. Specifically, areas of interest which concern food microbiology are: food poisoning, food spoilage, food preservation, and food legislation. Pathogens in product, or harmful microorganisms, result in major public health problems in the United States as well as worldwide and is the leading causes of illnesses and death."