In order to know the pattern of the outbreaks of food-borne illness in the area along the Wulumuqi railway line, the data of outbreaks of food-borne illness in the area from 1974 to 1996 were analyzed. 34 cases of outbreak of food-borne illness occurred and 1 156 people suffered over the past 23 years. Most outbreaks of food-borne illness occurred in the railman messes, 13 cases (38.3%) and 704 victims (60.9%). Outbreaks of food-borne illness occurred mainly in summer and fall, 22 cases (64.7%) and 629 victims (54.4%). The foods resulted in outbreak of food-borne illness were mainly meats and meat products, 21 cases (61.7%), and 633 victims (54.8%). The main agent led to outbreak of food-borne illness was pathogenic bacteria, 29 cases (85.3%), and 987 victims (85.4%). The results suggest that the railman messes,meats and meat products and pathogenic bacteria in food should be paid more attention for inspection and surveillance.