Author: Kit Redwine

Blueberries and other berries are often touted as superfoods packed with antioxidants and nutrients. However, according to a recent article on idse.net, these popular fruits can also harbor a serious and underrecognized threat – hepatitis A virus. Multiple multistate outbreaks of hepatitis A infections have been traced back to fresh and frozen berry products in recent years, highlighting an urgent need for improved detection methods. Researcher Mathilde Trudel-Ferland, PhD, from the Department of Animal and Food Sciences at the University of Delaware, shed light on the difficulties in identifying hepatitis A contamination in berry shipments. Despite the FDA conducting microbiological…

The Russian capital is grappling with a suspected outbreak of a rare and life-threatening form of food poisoning that has already hospitalized over 120 people and left dozens in intensive care. Health officials in Moscow reported the alarming spike in suspected cases of botulism, a potentially fatal illness caused by a potent toxin that attacks the nervous system. According to Moscow’s deputy mayor Anastasia Rakova, a total of 121 people have sought emergency medical treatment so far after exhibiting symptoms consistent with botulism poisoning. The severity of the outbreak is underscored by the fact that 55 of those patients were…

A serious outbreak of E.coli bacteria has prompted multiple food manufacturers to recall a wide range of pre-packaged sandwiches, wraps, and salads sold across the United Kingdom. Over 200 cases have already been confirmed by health officials, with that number expected to increase further in the coming week. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) determined that the E.coli cases reported nationwide were part of a single, linked outbreak likely caused by a contaminated food product or products distributed nationally. Due to the “wide geographic spread of cases,” the agency believes the outbreak stems from an item or items available in…

Penn Herb Company Ltd, based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has issued a recall for Nature’s Wonderland Thyroid Formula. The recall was prompted by concerns over possible contamination with Salmonella. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background Nature’s Wonderland Thyroid Formula is a dietary supplement commonly used to support thyroid health. Routine sampling program by the US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) revealed the presence of Salmonella in finished products. Penn Herb Company said it has suspended “production and distribution of the product…

When one hears ‘Salmonella’ it is usually in relation to consumption of contaminated or undercooked food. Not surprising since Salmonella bacteria are the most frequently reported cause of foodborne illness. Every year, an estimated 42,000 cases of salmonellosis are reported in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, many people may not know that Salmonella infection can happen from other sources, such as the feces of a beloved household pet. The CDC has just issued an investigation alert regarding a multistate outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to bearded dragons, small reptiles that are…

The US Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and the Centers for Disease Control (“CDC”) are currently investigating a number of illnesses linked to the consumption of Diamond Shruumz-brand Chocolate Bars, Cones, and Gummies. Background Diamond Shruumz-brand products are available online and in various retail locations nationwide, including smoke/vape shops, and retailers selling hemp-derived products (such as cannabidiol or delta-8 THC). The full list of affected retailers remains unknown. As of June 7, 2024, 12 cases have been reported across eight states: Alabama (1), Arizona (4), Indiana (2), Kentucky (1), Missouri (1), Nevada (1), Pennsylvania (1), and South Carolina (1). All…

A voluntary recall first initiated by Chicago, Illinois-based Newly Weds Foods, Inc. on May 2, 2024 has been updated and is still ongoing. The recall of nearly 60,000 pounds of seasoning is due to potential Salmonella contamination. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background Newly Weds Foods, Inc. has not issued a press release for this recall. As of yet, the company has not disclosed how the Salmonella contamination was discovered. The affected products were distributed in Florida, Illinois, and Texas. …

A tragic food poisoning incident during a community school program in Malaysia has resulted in two deaths and left scores of others ill, according to local health authorities. Investigations have traced the outbreak to a catered breakfast meal of noodles and fried eggs served at the event. The Selangor Health Department revealed that out of the 247 people who consumed the meal, 82 individuals experienced symptoms of food poisoning, including diarrhea, stomach ache, fever, vomiting, and nausea. The victims included organizers, teachers, school staff, and family members ranging in age from 19 months to 58 years. Sadly, two lives were…

The Columbus Crew SC’s recent loss in the CONCACAF Champions Cup soccer final against Pachuca has been overshadowed by allegations of potential misconduct, reports The Athletic, the sports department of The New York Times. In the aftermath of their 3-0 defeat, the Crew’s leadership suggested that the widespread illness that afflicted their players and staff in the days leading up to the match could have been the result of “subterfuge.” According to the article, Crew head coach Wilfried Nancy said that a significant portion of his team suffered from food poisoning, with many players experiencing diarrhea and other symptoms in…

Classic Delight LLC, a food company based in St. Mary’s, Ohio, has initiated a voluntary recall of several individually wrapped sandwich products. The recall is due to possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes (“Listeria”), a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background The recall was prompted after samples collected at Classic Delight’s facility tested positive for Listeria monocytogenes. In response, the company has halted production of the affected products while working closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate…