Author: Alicia Maroney

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…

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…