Author: Alicia Maroney
The United States Department of Agriculture: Safeguarding Food, Farming, and Rural America The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) plays a crucial and multifaceted role in American life. From setting dietary guidelines and supporting farmers to overseeing food safety and ensuring the health of rural communities, the USDA is at the heart of the nation’s agricultural and nutritional systems. Established in 1862 by President Abraham Lincoln—who famously called it “the people’s department”—the USDA has grown into a comprehensive federal agency that influences not only how food is grown and distributed, but also how Americans eat, live, and work. A Brief…
Chemical Contaminants in Food: The Hidden Dangers of Heavy Metals Food is a fundamental necessity of life, but the safety of what we eat can be compromised by invisible threats. Among the most insidious are chemical contaminants—specifically heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. According to the national food poisoning lawyer, Tony Coveny, these toxic elements can make their way into our food supply through soil, water, industrial pollution, and certain agricultural practices. Over time, chronic exposure to heavy metals can lead to serious health effects, ranging from neurological damage to organ failure. Understanding the sources, health risks, and…
The World Health Organization: Mission, Impact, and Challenges The World Health Organization (WHO), founded in 1948, is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, WHO’s mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable. With 194 member states, the organization plays a pivotal role in addressing global health challenges, coordinating international responses to disease outbreaks, setting evidence-based health standards, and supporting nations in achieving better health outcomes. Origins and Purpose The WHO emerged in the aftermath of World War II, as the world recognized the need for…
Silent Danger: The Threat of Undeclared Allergens in Our Food Supply Food allergies affect millions of people around the world, often turning an ordinary meal into a potential medical emergency. For individuals with allergies to common foods like peanuts, dairy, shellfish, or wheat, reading labels and trusting food safety practices are essential for survival. However, when allergens are present in foods but not properly declared on packaging, the results can be catastrophic. According to the national food poisoning lawyer, Tony Coveny, undeclared allergens represent a hidden and growing threat to public health, with serious consequences for individuals, families, and the…
Why Are Product Recalls on the Rise? Understanding the Surge in 2024 In recent years, consumers have witnessed a notable increase in product recalls, particularly within the food industry. In 2024, the United States experienced a significant uptick in food recalls, raising concerns about product safety and the factors contributing to this trend. The Surge in Food Recalls Data from 2024 indicates a substantial rise in food recalls across the United States. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported an 8% increase in food and beverage recalls, totaling 241 incidents. Conversely, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) noted a 38%…
Heat, Rain, and Risk: The Climate Connection to Foodborne Pathogens Climate change is increasingly recognized as a significant factor influencing the prevalence and distribution of foodborne pathogens. As global temperatures rise and weather patterns shift, the dynamics of foodborne illnesses are changing, posing new challenges to public health systems worldwide. Temperature and Pathogen Proliferation Elevated ambient temperatures can enhance the replication cycles of many foodborne pathogens, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter. These bacteria thrive in warmer conditions, leading to increased contamination risks during food production, processing, and storage. For instance, studies have shown a strong correlation between higher outdoor temperatures…
Salmonella and Reptiles: A Hidden Path to Infection and What to Do If You’re Exposed When most people think of Salmonella, they picture undercooked chicken, runny eggs, or unwashed produce. However, there is another lesser-known but equally dangerous source of salmonella infection: reptiles. Turtles, snakes, lizards, and other cold-blooded pets can carry this harmful bacterium without showing any signs of illness. According to the national food poisoning lawyer, Tony Coveny, despite their popularity as household companions, reptiles are a common source of salmonella transmission, particularly to young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. How Reptiles Spread Salmonella Reptiles naturally harbor…
USDA Withdraws Proposed Salmonella Rule for Raw Poultry: A Setback for Food Safety? On April 24, 2025, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the withdrawal of its proposed “Salmonella Framework for Raw Poultry Products,” a regulation intended to reduce salmonella contamination in chicken and turkey. This decision, following over 7,000 public comments, has sparked a debate between industry stakeholders and public health advocates. Understanding the Proposed Rule Introduced in August 2024, the USDA’s proposal aimed to establish enforceable standards for salmonella levels in raw poultry. Specifically, it would have required poultry producers to test for six salmonella strains most…
On April 23, 2025, the Viking Polaris cruise ship concluded its two-week voyage from Toronto to New York City amidst a gastrointestinal illness outbreak that affected over 30 individuals, including 28 passengers and 4 crew members. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is investigating the incident, with norovirus suspected as the potential cause. Outbreak Overview The outbreak was first reported to the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) on April 18, 2025. Affected individuals exhibited symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. The CDC is currently testing stool samples to confirm the causative agent. Response Measures In response to the…
Eating for Two: What Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy to Keep You and Baby Safe Pregnancy is a transformative time filled with joy, anticipation, and a seemingly endless stream of advice—especially when it comes to food. While it’s true that eating well is essential for a healthy pregnancy, it’s equally important to know which foods to avoid. According to the national food poisoning lawyer, Ron Simon, some everyday items can carry hidden risks, including bacteria, parasites, or toxins that could harm the developing baby. Here’s what you need to know about food safety during pregnancy and what to steer clear…