Author: Alicia Maroney

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…

Ice Machines: The Overlooked Food Poisoning Culprit Ice is often considered a safe addition to beverages and food displays. It is colorless, tasteless, and rarely questioned by consumers. However, ice machines, especially those in commercial settings, can be significant yet overlooked sources of foodborne illness. Because people do not associate ice with contamination, the health risks tied to improperly maintained ice machines often go unnoticed until outbreaks occur. The Misconception of Ice as “Safe” Many consumers and even some foodservice workers assume that ice, because it is frozen, is inherently free of bacteria or viruses. This misconception can be dangerous.…

Food banks play a vital role in combating hunger, offering nourishment to millions of individuals and families in need. As the demand for food assistance grows, food banks must not only manage increasing volumes of donations and distribution logistics but also maintain strict food safety protocols. Many of the people served by food banks, children, seniors, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems, are more vulnerable to foodborne illnesses. This makes food safety in these environments not only essential but potentially life-saving. Understanding the Risks in the Food Bank Setting Food banks often handle a wide variety of food products,…

From 2014 through 2022, data collected from foodborne illness outbreak investigations across the United States have revealed consistent patterns in the factors contributing to these outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with state and local health departments, compiled and analyzed thousands of outbreak reports. These reports help identify not only what foods were involved, but also the behaviors, practices, and environmental conditions that made people sick. Understanding these contributing factors allows for more targeted prevention strategies. It also provides critical insight into where food safety systems are most vulnerable, whether in restaurants, food production facilities, or even…

The landscape of infectious disease surveillance has experienced a significant shift with the introduction of culture independent diagnostic tests. These diagnostic tools have transformed how laboratories detect pathogens in clinical samples, offering rapid results that benefit both patients and healthcare providers. However, their use has introduced new challenges for public health surveillance systems that rely on bacterial cultures to detect and investigate outbreaks. Culture independent diagnostic tests allow for the identification of pathogens directly from patient specimens without the need for traditional culturing methods. These tests often use molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction or antigen detection to provide quick and accurate…

College life often involves late nights, shared kitchens, and a steady diet of convenience foods. While these habits are a rite of passage for many students, they can also create ideal conditions for foodborne illness. Students are at risk of food poisoning due to limited food storage space, lack of cooking experience, and communal living arrangements. Addressing food safety on college campuses is essential to protect students’ health and prevent outbreaks that can spread quickly in close quarters. Common Food Safety Challenges in Dorms and Campus Housing The average dorm room was not designed for food preparation. Many students rely…