What distinguishes infection from intoxication in terms of pathogenic microorganisms?

The distinction between infection and intoxication largely hinges on the role of live microorganisms in each process. When specifically looking at infection, it involves the introduction and colonization of live pathogenic organisms within a host. These microorganisms replicate and cause illness through their biological activity, which can include damaging the host's tissues and triggering immune responses.

In contrast, intoxication refers to the situation where illness occurs due to the ingestion of preformed toxins produced by bacteria, rather than due to the bacteria themselves. In cases of intoxication, the pathogenic microorganisms do not need to be alive, as the disease results from the toxins that have already been produced and are present in food or other consumables.

This understanding clarifies why the option stating that infection requires the consumption of live bacteria is the correct choice, as it highlights the necessity of live pathogens for the infection process. Intoxication can occur even in the absence of live bacteria because it is the toxins that lead to the symptoms of illness, differentiating it from infection.