Author: Alicia Maroney

Widespread Tomato Recall Issued Across 14 States Due to Salmonella Risk In early May 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced two significant tomato recalls affecting consumers in 14 states, stemming from potential Salmonella contamination linked to a Florida-based supplier. Companies Involved in the Recall Ray & Mascari Inc. initiated a voluntary recall of their 4-count Vine Ripe Tomatoes packaged in 20-ounce plastic clamshell containers. These products were distributed through Gordon Food Service Stores across 11 states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. The affected tomatoes bear the UPC code 7…

Unwrapping the Truth: The Hidden Dangers of Packaged Energy Bars Packaged energy bars are often marketed as a quick fix for hunger, a nutritious snack, or even a meal replacement for people on the go. With sleek packaging, promises of high protein content, and health claims such as “gluten-free,” “organic,” or “low sugar,” it’s easy to believe these bars are a safe and healthy choice. However, beneath the appealing exterior, many energy bars come with hidden dangers that could impact your health more than you realize. Understanding what’s inside these products—and how they can affect your body—is key to making…

The Role of Hand Hygiene in Preventing Foodborne Illness Foodborne illnesses are a significant global public health concern, affecting millions each year and leading to severe health consequences, especially among children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent the spread of these illnesses is through proper hand hygiene. Despite being a basic practice, hand hygiene remains underutilized in both domestic and commercial food settings. The failure to wash hands thoroughly before handling food contributes to a substantial portion of foodborne disease outbreaks. Understanding the science, benefits, and best practices of hand hygiene…

Maintaining high standards of cleanliness in restaurants is not just a matter of aesthetics or customer satisfaction—it is a fundamental public health necessity. Every year, foodborne illnesses affect millions of people globally, with a significant number of cases linked to restaurant dining. To minimize these risks, restaurants are governed by a framework of cleanliness standards and health regulations that ensure food is prepared, stored, and served in a safe and sanitary environment. These standards not only protect the health of patrons but also preserve the integrity and reputation of food establishments. Public Health and Safety The most compelling reason for…

The Riskiest Foods to Order at a Restaurant: What to Know Before You Dine Out Dining out offers convenience and enjoyment, but certain menu items carry a higher risk of foodborne illness due to factors like contamination, improper handling, or undercooking. Being informed about these risks can help you make safer choices when eating at restaurants. 1. Raw Oysters and Shellfish Raw oysters and other shellfish are often consumed without cooking, which means any pathogens present are not eliminated. These shellfish can harbor bacteria such as Vibrio and viruses like norovirus, especially if harvested from contaminated waters. Improper storage and…

A salmonella outbreak linked to Aladdin Mediterranean Café in San Diego’s Clairemont neighborhood has resulted in at least 33 confirmed cases and eight hospitalizations, prompting legal action and a public health investigation. Outbreak Details and Health Impact San Diego County health officials reported that individuals who dined at Aladdin Mediterranean Café between April 25 and April 26, 2025, began exhibiting symptoms consistent with salmonella infection, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever. The affected individuals range in age from 18 to 79 years old. As of May 7, 2025, the number of confirmed cases has risen to 33, with…

Fuel Up Right: Healthy Snacks for Athletes to Maximize Performance and Recovery Whether you’re a professional athlete, student competitor, or fitness enthusiast, what you eat between meals matters. Snacks aren’t just filler—they can play a crucial role in optimizing athletic performance, supporting recovery, and maintaining energy levels throughout the day. But not all snacks are created equal. Choosing the right ones can mean the difference between a sluggish workout and a strong finish. Why Snacks Matter for Athletes Athletes expend a significant amount of energy during training and competition. To sustain performance and promote muscle recovery, they require frequent, balanced…

Slow Cookers and Food Poisoning: Simmering Safety Concerns that Ensure Bacteria Like Salmonella or E. coli are Not Allowed to Grow Slow cookers, also known as crockpots, are a staple in many kitchens for their convenience and ability to transform simple ingredients into flavorful meals with minimal effort. With busy schedules and a desire for home-cooked food, slow cookers offer a solution that allows meals to cook while people are at work or asleep. However, when not used properly, these appliances can become a source of foodborne illness – such as Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria or other pathogens. Understanding the…

Understanding the Three Types of Foodborne Hazards: Biological, Chemical, and Physical Foodborne illnesses are a significant public health concern worldwide, with millions of cases reported annually. These illnesses are caused by consuming contaminated food and can result in mild discomfort or, in severe cases, hospitalization or death. Foodborne hazards are generally categorized into three main types: biological, chemical, and physical. Understanding each of these hazard types is essential for food handlers, producers, and consumers alike in order to maintain a safe food supply and prevent outbreaks. 1. Biological Hazards: The Most Common Culprit Biological hazards are microorganisms that contaminate food…

Is It Food Poisoning from a Restaurant? How to Identify the Signs and What to Do Next Food poisoning can be a miserable experience—sudden nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and sometimes fever that comes out of nowhere. But one of the most confusing aspects for many people is determining where exactly the illness came from. If you’ve recently eaten out, it’s natural to wonder if a restaurant meal was the culprit. Identifying whether your illness is the result of food poisoning from a restaurant involves recognizing symptoms, timing, patterns among other diners, and knowing how to report your case. Here’s…