BEIJING, Dec. 17 -- A total of 42 people died of food poisoning in China in the third quarter, a year-on-year reduction of 8.7 percent, said the National Health and Family Planning Commission on Wednesday.

The number of people who suffered food poisoning increased by 26.1 percent to 2,482, said a statement from the commission.

The number of cases increased by 11.5 percent to 68.

About 52.1 percent were caused by bacteria, and most cases occurred at home, according to the statement.

The commission will carry out more campaigns to help the public develop healthy eating habits.

It also urged schools, catering services and restaurants to raise hygiene standards.