What can be a consequence of a foodborne illness for a business?

A consequence of a foodborne illness for a business includes bad publicity and lawsuits. When customers become ill due to contaminated food, it can lead to significant negative press and damage to the company's reputation. Public perception plays a critical role in the food industry, and news of an outbreak associated with a specific business can deter customers, leading to a loss of sales. This damage to reputation can be long-lasting, as customers may view the establishment as unsafe.

Additionally, the possibility of lawsuits arises when individuals seek compensation for illnesses caused by the business's food products. Such legal actions can result in substantial financial burdens due to legal fees and settlements, further impacting the business's financial health. This situation can create a ripple effect, causing other stakeholders—like suppliers and partners—to reconsider their relationships with the business due to concerns about reliability and safety.

In contrast, the other choices suggest positive outcomes related to employee morale, customer satisfaction, and business partnerships, which are unlikely to occur in the context of a foodborne illness incident. The focus in this situation should be on the detrimental effects of such an event, which solidifies option C as the correct choice.