Author: Alicia Maroney

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Boulangerie Andalos Inc., based in Saint-Laurent, Quebec, Canada, have issued a voluntary recall for various Andalos-brand pastry products due to potential Salmonella contamination. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections in animals and humans, especially those in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background The recall was initiated as part of an investigation by the CFIA into an outbreak of foodborne illness linked to contaminated pistachios. This recall has been categorized as a Class 2 recall by the CFIA, meaning that “there is a moderate risk that…

As the school year begins, many parents turn their attention to packing nutritious and tasty lunches. However, food safety is just as important as what goes into the lunchbox. Without proper handling and storage, even a healthy lunch can become a source of foodborne illness. Young children are particularly vulnerable to bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli, making lunch box safety an essential part of back-to-school planning. Why Lunch Box Safety Matters Children often store their lunches in lockers, cubbies, or backpacks where temperatures can rise above safe levels. Harmful bacteria can multiply rapidly when food is left unrefrigerated between 40°F and 140°F,…

Cooking meat to the correct internal temperature is one of the most important steps in preventing foodborne illness. Whether grilling burgers, roasting chicken, or pan-searing steak, using a food thermometer and following safe cooking temperatures is essential. Undercooked or improperly stored meat can harbor dangerous bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which can cause severe illness or even death. Meat temperature guidelines are more than just suggestions, they are science-based rules designed to protect public health. Why Temperature Matters Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria that are only destroyed when the food is cooked to a high enough temperature. These bacteria live…

Charcuterie and grazing boards have exploded in popularity over the past few years, appearing everywhere from weddings and holiday parties to casual picnics and corporate events. Often celebrated for their artistic presentation and variety, these boards typically feature cured meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, dips, and crackers. While they may seem like the perfect centerpiece for entertaining, they come with hidden risks that can lead to foodborne illness when not handled properly. A Mix of High-Risk Foods Charcuterie boards combine multiple food types that are known to carry a higher risk of contamination. Cured meats like salami, prosciutto, and pâté can harbor Listeria…

A Salmonella outbreak linked to multiple brands of pistachios and products with pistachios has affected 52 people across four Canadian provinces, with nine of those requiring hospitalization. Background Those affected so far include 39 people in Quebec, 9 in Ontario, 3 in British Columbia, and 1 in Manitoba. Most of those who became ill reportedly consumed pistachios and products with pistachios in them. Most cases occurred between early March and mid-July 2025. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued the following recalls to date: As with all food recalls, the impacted products could have made their way to other…

Many people have stood in front of the refrigerator, holding a container of yogurt or a carton of milk, squinting at the expiration date and wondering if it is still safe to eat. Despite clear labeling and public health advice, a surprising number of individuals choose to consume expired food. This behavior is not just about saving money or avoiding waste. It is deeply rooted in human psychology, habits, and our understanding of risk. Expiration dates are meant to provide guidance on when a product is at its best in terms of quality and safety. However, there are several types…

Fermented foods have experienced a surge in popularity thanks to their perceived health benefits and rich flavors. Homemade kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, and other probiotic-rich items have made their way into kitchens across the world. Many people are attracted to fermentation because it is seen as a natural and traditional method of preserving food while enhancing gut health. However, the process of fermentation requires precision, cleanliness, and knowledge. When done incorrectly, homemade fermented foods can lead to serious health consequences. Fermentation is a controlled microbial process that relies on beneficial bacteria or yeast to convert sugars into acids or alcohol. This transformation…

TikTok has become one of the most influential social media platforms among teenagers and young adults. With billions of views on cooking and food-related content, users are drawn to the quick, entertaining nature of viral food hacks. However, not every trend comes with a warning label. Behind the flashy visuals and catchy soundtracks, many viral food hacks circulating on TikTok may actually pose serious food safety risks. Young viewers, often unaware of these dangers, are at particular risk of consuming undercooked, improperly stored, or dangerously prepared food. The Allure of Viral Food Hacks The appeal of viral food hacks lies…

Food poisoning is often thought of as a short term illness. A few days of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain are considered temporary discomforts that most people recover from without complications. However, recent research is beginning to shed light on the longer term effects foodborne illness can have on the body, especially in how it alters the gut microbiome. These disruptions may contribute to lasting health issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerances, and even chronic fatigue. Understanding the Gut Microbiome The gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of trillions of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms that live in…

City health officials confirmed on July 25, 2025 that a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases had emerged in Central Harlem. Initial reports identified 22 individuals infected and one death. As of August 5, the total has rapidly grown to 67 confirmed cases, and a third person has died from the illness. This outbreak is centered in Harlem zip codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039. Source Traced to Cooling Towers Investigators traced the outbreak to 11 rooftop cooling towers contaminated with Legionella pneumophila, the bacteria responsible for Legionnaires’ disease. The towers have since been disinfected under city orders, with remediation completed within…