Which of the following is a common symptom of foodborne illness?

Nausea is a common symptom of foodborne illness because it is often the body's response to ingesting contaminated food. Foodborne pathogens, which include bacteria, viruses, and parasites, can disrupt normal digestive processes and lead to sensations of discomfort in the stomach. This discomfort can trigger nausea as a means of expelling the harmful substances from the system. Other gastrointestinal symptoms commonly associated with foodborne illness include vomiting and diarrhea, which may accompany nausea as the body attempts to rid itself of toxins or harmful pathogens.

While chest pain, headaches, and skin rashes can occur in various medical conditions, they are not typical symptoms specifically associated with foodborne illnesses. Chest pain could suggest a variety of issues, including cardiovascular problems, while headaches might arise from dehydration or stress instead of foodborne pathogens. Skin rashes may be indicative of allergic reactions rather than directly related to foodborne illness. Thus, nausea stands out as the most directly related symptom to foodborne contamination.