Food Poisoning Compensation Calculator
Compensation Estimate
General Damages-
Lost Earnings-
Medical Costs (est.)-
Total Estimated Claim-
Food Poisoning Compensation Bands
| Severity | Duration | Typical Award |
|---|---|---|
| Minor gastric | 1–3 days | £800–£1,900 |
| Moderate | 4–14 days | £1,900–£4,200 |
| Serious | 2–6 weeks | £4,200–£9,500 |
| Severe/lasting | 6+ weeks | £9,500–£20,000+ |
Based on Judicial College Guidelines for general damages. Special damages (lost earnings, medical costs) are added on top.
Key Facts
Claim Window
3 Years
No-Win No-Fee
Available
Evidence Needed
Medical + Receipt
How to Use This Calculator
1
Select severity
Choose the level that best matches your symptoms and treatment required.
2
Enter recovery time
Total days from onset until you returned to normal health.
3
Enter work days lost
Days you were unable to work due to the illness.
4
Enter daily pay
Your gross daily pay rate for calculating lost earnings.
5
Review estimate
See general damages, lost earnings and medical costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim for food poisoning?
You can claim if you can prove: (1) you ate food at a specific establishment, (2) the food was contaminated due to their negligence, and (3) you suffered illness as a result. Medical evidence is essential.
What evidence do I need?
Keep receipts showing you ate at the establishment, see your GP as soon as possible, request a stool sample test, photograph any visible contamination, and get contact details of any witnesses or others who were ill.
How long do I have to claim?
You have 3 years from the date of illness to start a claim. For children, the 3-year limit begins when they turn 18.
Can I claim against a restaurant?
Yes. Restaurants, takeaways, hotels, caterers, food manufacturers and retailers all have a duty of care under the Food Safety Act 1990. If they served contaminated food due to poor hygiene practices, they are liable.
Do I need a solicitor?
For minor claims (under £10,000), you can use the small claims court without a solicitor. For larger claims, a no-win no-fee personal injury solicitor is recommended.
What if others were ill too?
If multiple people at the same event or restaurant became ill, this strengthens your case significantly. Try to get statements from other affected individuals.
Official Sources & References
Data verified against official UK government sources. Last checked April 2026.