Which bacteria is known to cause food poisoning?

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is well-known for causing food poisoning, particularly certain strains such as E. coli O157:H7, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal illness. This bacterium can contaminate food and water, particularly undercooked or raw meat, unpasteurized dairy products, and fresh produce contaminated with fecal matter. The symptoms of E. coli infection can range from mild to severe, including abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and vomiting.

The other options listed are not typically associated with food poisoning. Streptococcus pneumoniae is primarily known for causing pneumonia, meningitis, and other respiratory infections. Bacillus anthracis is associated with anthrax, a serious infectious disease caused by exposure to its spores, rather than foodborne illness. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the causative agent of tuberculosis, a disease that primarily affects the lungs and is not linked to food poisoning. Therefore, E. coli's association with foodborne outbreaks makes it the correct answer in this context.