During the Roman Empire, there were several food-related diseases and health issues, some of which were due to the lack of knowledge about food safety and hygiene, and others due to the dietary habits and food preservation methods of the time. Here are a few notable concerns related to food and health during the Roman era:

1. Food Poisoning and Contamination: Food poisoning was likely a common issue, as knowledge about bacteria and proper food handling was limited. Meat and fish, for example, could easily become contaminated. The Romans did use methods like salting and smoking to preserve food, but these methods were not foolproof.

2. Lead Poisoning: One of the most significant health issues in Ancient Rome was lead poisoning. The Romans used lead in their plumbing and also as a sweetener in wine (lead acetate). Chronic lead poisoning leads to a range of health problems, including abdominal pain, neurological issues, and possibly even mental illness.

3. Parasitic Infections: Parasites were a common problem. The consumption of undercooked meat, especially pork, could lead to trichinosis, a disease caused by a parasitic roundworm. Additionally, poor sanitation could lead to the spread of other parasitic infections.

4. Gout and Diet-Related Diseases: The diet of the Roman elite was rich in meats, seafood, and wine, which could lead to health problems such as gout. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid, and it was known as the "disease of kings" or "rich man's disease."

5. Dysentery and Gastrointestinal Diseases: Due to sometimes questionable water sources and lack of modern sanitation, diseases like dysentery were common. Contaminated water and food could spread bacteria, causing severe diarrhea and dehydration.

6. Nutritional Deficiencies: While the Roman diet was varied, certain segments of the population, especially the poor, might suffer from nutritional deficiencies. Lack of access to a variety of foods could lead to issues like scurvy (vitamin C deficiency) or pellagra (niacin deficiency).

7. Food Adulteration: The adulteration of food was a known problem. For instance, wine was sometimes mixed with harmful substances to improve its taste or preserve it longer. Similarly, other foodstuffs might be adulterated with cheaper ingredients that could be harmful to health.

8. Alcohol-Related Health Issues: The Romans were known for their wine consumption, which was a part of daily life for people of all classes. Excessive consumption of wine, often mixed with various additives, could lead to a range of health problems, including liver disease.

It's important to note that while the Romans had advanced knowledge in many areas, including engineering and law, their understanding of medicine and food safety was primitive by today's standards. Many of their practices, while innovative for their time, carried inherent health risks that they were not fully aware of.