Author: Alicia Maroney

Canning is a time-honored method of food preservation, celebrated for its ability to extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, meats, and more. Whether practiced at home or in commercial settings, canning provides convenience and reduces food waste. However, improper canning techniques can pose serious health risks, particularly the threat of foodborne illnesses. Among these, botulism—a rare but potentially fatal illness caused by Clostridium botulinum—is of particular concern. Ensuring canning safety is critical to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and to keep preserved foods safe for consumption. Understanding the Risks Canned foods create an environment where microorganisms can thrive…

In recent years, natural and DIY skincare products have surged in popularity. Fueled by a desire to avoid synthetic chemicals, many people are turning to their kitchens for beauty treatments. From honey face masks to oatmeal scrubs and avocado moisturizers, food-based skincare is often touted as healthier, more sustainable, and eco-friendly. However, using food items in skincare—especially homemade preparations—carries hidden risks, including the potential for foodborne illnesses. Understanding these risks and following safety precautions is crucial to protect both skin and health. The Appeal of Food-Based Skincare Food-based skincare products offer several benefits: Some food-derived skincare products are commercially manufactured…

Growing your own fruits and vegetables is a rewarding and health-conscious activity. It promotes sustainability, reduces food costs, and increases access to fresh produce. However, what many home gardeners may not realize is that foodborne illnesses can originate just as easily from backyard gardens as from large-scale farms if proper safety measures aren’t followed. Contaminated produce has been linked to pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, all of which can cause serious illness. Ensuring food safety from garden to table is essential for protecting your health and that of your family. Common Sources of Contamination in Home Gardens Foodborne…

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) plays a central role in protecting and promoting the health and well-being of all Americans. As the federal government’s primary agency for health-related services, HHS oversees a vast array of programs that affect nearly every citizen—from healthcare access and disease prevention to food safety and public health emergencies. Founded in 1953, the department’s influence extends across clinical research, Medicare and Medicaid administration, public health preparedness, and more. Mission and Vision HHS’s mission is “to enhance the health and well-being of all Americans by providing for effective health and human services and…

Thawing frozen meat might seem like a simple task, but doing it the wrong way can lead to dangerous foodborne illnesses. Whether you’re defrosting chicken for a family dinner or a steak for the grill, it’s crucial to follow safe thawing methods to prevent bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli from multiplying. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) both emphasize that improper thawing is one of the leading contributors to foodborne illness outbreaks. Here’s what you need to know. Why Safe Thawing Matters When meat is left at unsafe temperatures (between…

Non-perishable foods are a pantry staple, especially in emergency preparedness, long-term storage, and day-to-day convenience. But “non-perishable” doesn’t mean “lasts forever.” These items do have a shelf life, and knowing how long they truly last can help reduce waste, prevent foodborne illness, and save money. What Is a Non-Perishable Food? Non-perishable foods are items that don’t spoil quickly and can be stored at room temperature for extended periods. Unlike perishable items like fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meat, non-perishables typically include canned goods, dried foods, grains, and shelf-stable products. Shelf Life of Common Non-Perishable Foods 1. Canned Goods According to…

Butter is a staple in many households, used to spread on toast, bake pastries, and enrich sauces. But there’s one question that continues to spark debate in kitchens everywhere: Should butter be stored on the counter or in the refrigerator? While both storage methods have their pros and cons, the answer ultimately comes down to a balance between food safety, texture preferences, and usage habits. What Is Butter, Really? Butter is made by churning cream until the fat separates from the buttermilk. The resulting product is about 80% fat, with the remainder being water and milk solids. Its high fat…

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States—a time for outdoor celebrations, backyard barbecues, picnics, and gatherings with family and friends. While enjoying burgers on the grill or potato salad under the sun, it’s easy to overlook one critical detail: food safety. Warm weather and outdoor food prep can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses, which can quickly turn a festive holiday into a miserable memory. Fortunately, with proper precautions, you can keep your celebration both fun and safe from food poisoning like salmonella or E. coli. Why Food Safety Matters According to the Centers…

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…