The document discusses various pathogens that can cause foodborne illness, referred to as "bad bugs". It focuses on six pathogens that the FDA and CDC consider highly infective and easily transmitted by food employees. These six pathogens are Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, norovirus, Clostridium perfringens, and Campylobacter. The document also discusses bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungi, and toxins that can cause foodborne illness. It provides details on specific pathogens like Listeria, norovirus, and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. The intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence bacterial growth are explained.