Study the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of the vegetal food poisoning in China, so as to provide scientific basis for early warning, prevention and control.Methods Descriptive study on the vegetal food poisoning data during 2004 to 2013 was collected from National Management Information System of Public Health Emergencies. Results 660 outbreaks of vegetal food poisoning were reported from 2004 to 2013, which cause 17 955 cases and 196 deaths. The fourth quarter of each year is the high prevalent season of the vegetal food poisoning. Yunnan, Guangxi, Sichuan, Guangdong and Guizhou Provinces had high incidence of vegetal food poisoning. Haricot bean poisoning accounted for 53.3% of the total number of events. Monkshood, tung, castor seed, germination of potato and gelsemine caused poisoning accounted for 24.5% of the total number of events. The main location that the vegetal food poisoning occurred was canteens. Improper food processing and mistaking were the main cause.Conclusion It's important to enhance supervision and management from farm to table, and standardize food labeling and food promotion. Appropriate countermeasures such as timely warning, surveillance, and health education should be taken.