Author: Alicia Maroney

When diners walk into a restaurant, most don’t think twice about whether the food is safe. That confidence is largely thanks to the work of local, state, and federal health departments, which play a crucial role in preventing foodborne illness, especially in restaurants, where a single misstep can sicken dozens or even hundreds of people. Behind every restaurant health inspection, food safety regulation, and outbreak investigation is a network of trained professionals whose mission is to protect public health. Their efforts, while quite essential, are largely invisible to the public. The Foundation: Regular Inspections One of the most visible roles…

In an age where food recalls and contamination outbreaks seem to dominate the headlines, the need for more transparent, efficient, and responsive food safety systems has never been more pressing. Enter smart labels and QR codes, technologies that are quietly revolutionizing how we track food from farm to fork. These tools are not just for scanning prices or finding recipes. They hold the potential to transform public health by helping consumers, producers, and regulators respond faster to foodborne illness threats. What Are Smart Labels? Smart labels are enhanced product tags that go beyond traditional printed barcodes. They may include radio-frequency identification…

Summer is the perfect season to embrace heart-healthy eating. With an abundance of fresh produce, longer days, and outdoor activities, it’s easier than ever to swap processed snacks for foods that support cardiovascular wellness. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, heading to a picnic, or looking for something light to beat the heat, heart-healthy snacks can keep your energy up without putting your health at risk. Here are the best summer snacks that are tasty, satisfying, and great for your heart. 1. Fresh Berries with Greek Yogurt Berries, like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, are summer superstars. Packed with antioxidants,…

Air fryers have taken modern kitchens by storm. With promises of crispy fries, juicy chicken, and golden veggies using little to no oil, it’s easy to understand the appeal. As with any cooking appliance, safe use is key, not only to prevent burns or kitchen fires, but also to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. An air fryer doesn’t eliminate all the dangers of undercooked or mishandled food. If you’re among the millions who use an air fryer weekly, here’s how to do it safely and smartly. Basic Safety Tips for Using Your Air Fryer 1. Read the Manual (Yes,…

In mid-July 2025, the U.S. CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) confirmed an acute gastrointestinal (GI) illness outbreak aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas during its voyage from July 4–11, 2025. While the causative agent remains undetermined, the event provides valuable lessons about infection risks and prevention aboard cruise ships. Outbreak by the Numbers Symptoms developed during the cruise, prompting authorities to investigate and intervene mid-voyage. What Was the Pathogen? Although norovirus frequently causes such outbreaks on cruise ships, in this case, samples were collected and lab testing was pending as of the report, leaving the causative agent unknown. Commonly, GI outbreaks on vessels are…

When you sit down at a restaurant table, whether it’s a casual diner or a trendy brunch spot, there’s a good chance you’ll find a caddy of condiments: ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, maybe even hot sauce or a squeeze bottle of mayo. These familiar tabletop staples may seem harmless, but research and restaurant hygiene experts suggest they can be one of the dirtiest surfaces in any eatery. From sticky fingers to infrequent cleaning, condiment bottles can quietly harbor bacteria, viruses, and even food residue, making them a potential risk for foodborne illness. While we often worry about undercooked food or…

When you sit down at a restaurant table, whether it’s a casual diner or a trendy brunch spot, there’s a good chance you’ll find a caddy of condiments: ketchup, mustard, salt, pepper, maybe even hot sauce or a squeeze bottle of mayo. These familiar tabletop staples may seem harmless, but research and restaurant hygiene experts suggest they can be one of the dirtiest surfaces in any eatery. From sticky fingers to infrequent cleaning, condiment bottles can quietly harbor bacteria, viruses, and even food residue, making them a potential risk for foodborne illness. While we often worry about undercooked food or…

As travel habits shift toward more personalized and flexible experiences, vacation rentals, like those offered through Airbnb, Vrbo, and other platforms, have become a popular alternative to hotels. With access to full kitchens and more home-like accommodations, travelers are increasingly cooking meals, storing food, and eating in rather than dining out. But while this can save money and add convenience, it also comes with important food safety considerations that are often overlooked. Whether you’re planning a beach getaway, a mountain retreat, or a city escape, here’s what you need to know about keeping your food safe when staying in a…

Summer is a time for carefree play, barefoot sprints across the lawn, muddy hands digging in the dirt, and popsicles on sticky fingers. While summer brings freedom and fun, it also comes with a hidden risk: dirty hands and the spread of germs, especially right before meals or snacks. Whether it’s at the beach, the lake, a picnic, or just your backyard, encouraging children to wash their hands properly, and consistently, can help prevent foodborne illness and other infections. Teaching kids to keep their hands clean during summer isn’t just about soap and water; it’s about building habits that stick…

When we think of foodborne illness outbreaks in restaurants, bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli usually come to mind. But another category of pathogens is often overlooked and just as dangerous: parasites. Though less common than bacterial outbreaks, parasitic infections can cause severe illness, prolonged symptoms, and even long-term health complications. In restaurant settings, where food handling, hygiene, and ingredient sourcing are critical, parasitic outbreaks pose a real threat to public health. Here’s a closer look at the most common parasites responsible for restaurant-related outbreaks, how they spread, and what restaurants and diners can do to stay safe. 1. Giardia lamblia What it is: Giardia is…