Author: Alicia Maroney

In a world of growing food chains, rising consumer demand, and globalized trade, ensuring that food is safe, wholesome, and accurately labeled is more important than ever. In the United States, one federal agency stands at the forefront of this mission: the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). A vital arm of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), FSIS plays a key role in protecting public health by regulating and inspecting the nation’s commercial meat, poultry, and egg products. A Brief History of FSIS FSIS traces its roots back to the early 20th century, prompted by public outcry following the…

Open Water Safety: Protecting Yourself from Dangerous Pathogens This Summer As temperatures rise and summer approaches, people across the country flock to lakes, rivers, and oceans for recreation and relief from the heat. While swimming and other water-based activities offer fun and fitness, open water environments can harbor a range of dangerous pathogens that pose serious health risks. Understanding these microbial threats and taking precautions is critical for a safe and healthy summer. What Pathogens Lurk in Open Water? Open bodies of water are not sterile. They are dynamic ecosystems influenced by rainfall, agricultural runoff, sewage spills, wildlife, and human…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) plays a pivotal role in protecting public health in the United States, particularly when it comes to foodborne illness outbreaks. Identifying and responding to multistate foodborne outbreaks is one of the CDC’s most critical responsibilities. These events are complex, often involving numerous patients, multiple states, and different levels of government working in tandem. Understanding how the CDC identifies such outbreaks sheds light on a process that protects millions from widespread illness. Step 1: Routine Surveillance and Reporting The CDC relies on a robust national surveillance system to detect possible outbreaks. One key…

Aladdin Mediterranean Café Salmonella Outbreak: Illnesses, Lawsuits, and Owner’s Apology In late April 2025, a significant salmonella outbreak was linked to Aladdin Mediterranean Café, a well-known restaurant in the Clairemont neighborhood of San Diego, California. The incident resulted in at least 98 confirmed or probable cases of salmonella infection, with nine individuals requiring hospitalization. The affected patrons ranged in age from 1 to 90 years old, highlighting the widespread impact of the outbreak. Note: Filing a California Salmonella or E. coli Lawsuit Timeline of the Outbreak The outbreak occurred between April 25 and May 1, 2025, during which patrons who…

The 2024 McDonald’s E. coli Outbreak: Legal Fallout and Market Impact In October 2024, McDonald’s faced a significant public health crisis when an E. coli outbreak was linked to its Quarter Pounder hamburgers. This incident resulted in over 100 reported illnesses, 34 hospitalizations, and one death across 14 U.S. states. The outbreak was traced to slivered onions supplied by Taylor Farms, leading to a nationwide recall and a series of legal and financial repercussions for the fast-food giant. Outbreak Overview The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the outbreak on October 22, 2024, identifying slivered onions used in…

A multistate outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes linked to frozen supplemental shakes has resulted in at least 42 illnesses, 41 hospitalizations, and 14 deaths, according to a joint report from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The outbreak was traced back to frozen supplemental nutrition shakes distributed under the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands, manufactured by Prairie Farms at its Fort Wayne, Indiana facility. The Outbreak: Timeline and Scope The investigation into the outbreak began in early 2025 after clusters of Listeria monocytogenes infections were reported in multiple states. The…

Listeria monocytogenes is a dangerous foodborne pathogen known for its ability to thrive in refrigerated environments and cause serious illness, particularly in vulnerable populations. One of the most severe outbreaks in recent memory was linked to frozen supplemental shakes produced by Prairie Farms and distributed under the Lyons ReadyCare and Sysco Imperial brands. The outbreak spanned over a year and resulted in dozens of hospitalizations and several deaths. Below is a detailed look at the history and timeline of this tragic public health event. Background: What Is Listeria Monocytogenes? Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium responsible for listeriosis, an illness with…

When it comes to food safety, refrigeration is often viewed as a silver bullet for keeping harmful bacteria at bay. However, Listeria monocytogenes is a unique and dangerous exception. This resilient pathogen has evolved the ability to survive, and even thrive, at refrigeration temperatures that would typically suppress or kill most other foodborne microbes. Its cold tolerance is a key reason Listeria remains one of the deadliest foodborne pathogens in the United States and around the world. Understanding Listeria monocytogenes Listeria monocytogenes is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that causes listeriosis, a potentially life-threatening infection. It is particularly dangerous to pregnant…

Listeria monocytogenes is a stealthy and resilient foodborne pathogen responsible for listeriosis, a potentially deadly infection. Unlike most bacteria, Listeria can thrive in refrigerated environments and withstand common food preservation methods, making it one of the most dangerous contaminants in the food supply. While listeriosis is relatively rare, it has one of the highest mortality rates of any foodborne illness, especially among pregnant women, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Understanding which foods are most commonly linked to Listeria is essential for preventing illness. This article explores those high-risk foods, the reasons behind their susceptibility, and steps consumers can take to…

In April 2025, Wells Enterprises, a prominent U.S. ice cream manufacturer based in Le Mars, Iowa, initiated a voluntary nationwide recall of over 16,000 gallons of ice cream and frozen yogurt due to potential plastic contamination. This recall, announced on April 25, 2025, encompasses 22 different products across several brands, including Blue Bunny, Halo Top, Bomb Pop, Blue Ribbon Classics, and The Cheesecake Factory at Home. Scope of the Recall The recall specifically targets 3-gallon tubs of ice cream and frozen yogurt with “Best If Used By” dates ranging from March to October 2026. These products were distributed to 103…