CDC says 1 in 6 people get sick from their food

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is out with new estimates about how many people get sick from foodborne illnesses every year and it's a lot of people – 48 million, or 1 in 6 Americans.

About 3,000 die from forborne diseases.

The CDC has had estimate before, but the agency believes these are the most accurate.

"We've made progress in better understanding the burden of foodborne illness and unfortunately, far too many people continue to get sick from the food they eat," said Dr. Thomas Frieden, CDC director, in a statement. "These estimates provide valuable information to help CDC and its partners set priorities and further reduce illnesses from food."

The new estimates are lower than past estimate because the agency says it's using better methodology.

About 90 percent of estimated illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths were due to seven pathogens: Salmonella, norovirus, Campylobacter, Toxoplasma, E.coli O157, Listeria and Clostridium perfringens.

There have been several recalls in recent years, including a massive egg recall in August, and government officials are calling for passage of a new food safety bill that would give the Food and Drug Administration greater authority over the food system.

Have you gotten sick from your food? Learn about preventing illness at www.foodsafety.gov.