Author: Alicia Maroney
In the food industry, few events are as damaging, or as instructive, as a foodborne illness outbreak. For restaurants, manufacturers, and distributors alike, an outbreak can lead to costly recalls, legal liability, reputational harm, and even the closure of the business. But every major outbreak also presents valuable lessons about food safety, communication, and crisis management. For food businesses determined to avoid becoming the next headline, studying past outbreaks is essential. The High Cost of Contamination Major food poisoning outbreaks often start with a single lapse, a missed step in sanitation, a faulty piece of equipment, a sick employee, or…
Foodborne illnesses affect millions of people worldwide each year, causing symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions. Traditional methods for detecting and investigating food poisoning outbreaks often rely on delayed reports, manual data collection, and lab confirmations, resulting in slow responses that allow contaminated food to remain in circulation. But artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are rapidly transforming how public health agencies identify and respond to food poisoning outbreaks, leading to faster interventions and safer food systems. The Challenge of Tracking Foodborne Illnesses Foodborne illnesses are notoriously difficult to detect early. They can stem from a wide variety of…
In the aftermath of conflict, natural disasters, or humanitarian crises, refugee camps and emergency relief zones become essential lifelines for millions of displaced individuals. These environments, though critical for survival, often operate under immense logistical pressure. Amid the urgent need for food, shelter, and medical care, food safety frequently becomes an overlooked issue, with potentially deadly consequences. From contamination during distribution to inadequate storage facilities, ensuring safe and nutritious food in these challenging conditions is both vital and complex. The Unique Challenges of Emergency Settings Refugee camps and disaster zones are rarely equipped with the infrastructure necessary to maintain the…
When a customer suffers food poisoning after dining out, the consequences extend far beyond the individual’s illness. For restaurants, such incidents can trigger legal challenges, costly recalls, and lasting reputational damage. In the food service industry, where trust and public perception are crucial, a single foodborne illness outbreak can spiral into a legal and financial crisis. Understanding the legal ramifications of food poisoning for restaurants is key to navigating liability, protecting the brand, and preventing future incidents. The Legal Exposure: Liability and Litigation Restaurants have a legal duty to serve food that is safe to consume. When they fail to…
For fans of Japanese cuisine, sushi and sashimi are two iconic dishes that have become staples in restaurants around the world. Both showcase raw fish, are beautifully presented, and offer a taste of tradition and elegance. But while they might seem similar, sushi and sashimi are distinctly different, and so are the risks associated with eating them. If you’re a seafood lover, it’s worth understanding not just what sets these dishes apart, but what potential food safety dangers they carry. What Is Sushi? Sushi is a dish made with vinegared rice (called shari or sumeshi) combined with a variety of ingredients, including raw…
What You Need to Know About Foraging and Food Safety In recent years, foraging has seen a dramatic resurgence, fueled by a desire to reconnect with nature, embrace sustainability, and enjoy ultra-local, seasonal ingredients. From wild berries and mushrooms to edible flowers and greens, foraging allows people to gather food straight from the land. But while the practice can be rewarding and nutritious, it also carries real risks if not done with care and knowledge. Understanding food safety when foraging is essential to protecting yourself and others from potential illness, or worse. The Growing Appeal of Foraging Foraging has long…
Should You Rinse Chicken? The Debate That Won’t Die—And What the Science Says For generations, rinsing raw chicken under the faucet has been a common kitchen practice. Whether it’s to remove slime, blood, or simply as part of a cultural cooking tradition, many home cooks continue to wash their poultry before cooking. But in recent years, food safety experts have urged the public to abandon rinsing raw chicken altogether. So why does the debate still rage on, and what does the science actually say? A Longstanding Kitchen Tradition Many people rinse chicken out of habit or because it was how…
Pets and Food Safety: Can Animals Spread Foodborne Illness in Your Home? For millions of households, pets are more than just animals, they’re family. Dogs and cats curl up on couches, roam kitchens, and sometimes even get a taste of what’s cooking. But while they offer companionship, they can also introduce risks to your household’s food safety. Pets, like humans, can carry or transmit bacteria and pathogens that cause foodborne illness. Understanding these risks and adopting good hygiene habits can help ensure that your love for your pets doesn’t inadvertently compromise your health. How Pets Can Contribute to Foodborne Illness…
Is Your Fridge Actually Safe? How to Store Foods for Optimal Safety Most people view their refrigerator as a safety net, a reliable way to keep food fresh and prevent illness. But while refrigeration is a crucial part of food safety, improper storage practices can turn even the coldest fridge into a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. From the wrong temperature settings to poor food placement, small mistakes can have big consequences for your health. Understanding how to properly use and organize your refrigerator can dramatically reduce the risk of foodborne illness and extend the shelf life of your groceries.…
When someone falls ill from contaminated food, the aftermath can be painful, expensive, and emotionally draining. Medical bills, lost wages, long-term health effects, and emotional distress are just a few of the consequences. For many victims, taking legal action is a way to seek justice and recover damages. But one of the first decisions they may face is whether to join a class action lawsuit or file an individual personal injury claim. Each option has benefits and drawbacks, depending on the situation, severity of illness, and goals of the victim. Understanding Class Action Lawsuits A class action is a legal…