Author: Kit Redwine
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has taken a significant step to enhance food safety by declaring Salmonella an adulterant in raw breaded stuffed chicken products. An adulterant is a contaminant that can cause food poisoning. According to the USDA press release, this determination applies when these products “exceed a specific threshold of 1 colony forming unit (CFU) per gram or higher for Salmonella contamination.” Why Is This Important? The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) aims to curb Salmonella-related illnesses linked to raw poultry in the United States. By declaring Salmonella an adulterant, the organization can take action…
Gibson Farms has initiated a recall for its Organic Light Halves and Pieces shelled walnuts due to potential contamination with Escherichia coli 0157:H7 (E. coli). E. coli infections from contaminated food can cause serious, and sometimes fatal, illnesses in at-risk populations. Background Gibson Farms issued the recall after the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported 12 E. coli infections from two states that are potentially connected to consumption of the affected product. An investigation has been launched to determine the source of the contamination. The announcement from Gibson Farms states that the affected product was sold to distributors in California…
E. coli is a diverse group of bacteria that naturally inhabit the intestines of humans and animals. Most strains are harmless, playing essential roles in digestion and nutrient absorption. However, some pathogenic strains can cause illness, leading to conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) and foodborne illnesses. E. coli and Food Poisoning When we think of foodborne illnesses, certain strains of E. coli immediately come to mind. These bacteria often find their way into our meals through contaminated food or water. Here are the key points about E. coli in food: E. coli and Urinary Tract Infections Now let’s shift…
Although rare, Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) is a serious condition that can occur as a complication of an E. coli infection. Let’s look into the details of this disease, its causes, symptoms, and potential consequences. What is Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS)? HUS primarily affects the kidneys and blood clotting functions in a human body. It arises when small blood vessels become damaged and inflamed, leading to the formation of clots throughout the body. These clots can wreak havoc on vital organs, like the kidneys, leading to life-threatening kidney failure. Causes of HUS E. coli infection occurs from consuming any product…
Doral, Florida-based Tama Corporation has issued a voluntary recall for its product, “Queso de Mano PAISA”, due to concerns about Listeria contamination. Listeria is 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 Routine laboratory product testing of the specified lot code revealed the presence of Listeria. A second test confirmed the findings of the first, leading to the company issuing the recall. This specific batch was distributed exclusively in Salt Lake City, Utah, and was only sold at Rancho Markets stores.…
In recent years, the cruise industry has grappled with the challenge of norovirus outbreaks onboard ships. However, that battle changed significantly for Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruise ships in 2023 when the company successfully eradicated norovirus outbreaks after implementing a comprehensive sanitation campaign. Norovirus, often dubbed the “stomach flu,” is a highly contagious virus known for causing acute gastroenteritis in individuals of all ages worldwide. The pathogen is especially contagious and can be transmitted through multiple routes, including person to person contact, on contaminated surfaces, in contaminated food and water, and from aerosolized particles. Outbreaks can occur quickly in…
In a recent development, particles of the H5N1 avian influenza virus were detected in pasteurized milk from dairy cattle. However, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reassured consumers that the nation’s milk supply remains safe to drink. Bird Flu in Dairy Cattle Trace fragments of the bird flu virus were found in dairy cattle although it’s already understood that these particles may not be eliminated during the pasteurization process. The FDA said that further testing is underway to assess the virus’s potential for replication in laboratory conditions. Why Milk Is Still Safe The FDA has stated that…
A Chuck E. Cheese birthday party in Lexington, KY turned sour for a couple and their guests, as 20 attendees reportedly fell ill after consuming food at the celebration. The incident, first reported by WKYT news, has raised concerns about food safety practices at the popular entertainment venue. According to Eric and Jennifer Carter, their granddaughter’s birthday party on April 6, 2024 took a turn for the worse 48 hours later when numerous guests began experiencing symptoms of food poisoning, including vomiting and diarrhea. Allegations suggest that contaminated food served at the party may have been the cause of the…
In an updated public health alert, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported an expanded recall effort due to an outbreak of Salmonella infections linked to consumption of organic basil from Infinite Herbs. Fast Facts Organic basil from Infinite Herbs and now Melissa’s brands are part of the affected product recall. So far, twelve people have been sickened but only one person has been hospitalized. Fortunately, no deaths have been reported. The outbreak spans across seven states and three different retailers. See below for specific states where the affected products were sold and associated retail locations.…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a food safety alert regarding an outbreak of Salmonella infections associated with potentially contaminated Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil sold at nationwide grocery retailer Trader Joe’s. Cause of the Recall The recall was initiated after 12 cases of Salmonella infections linked to the consumption of Infinite Herbs-brand organic basil were reported across seven states. The CDC also reports that Infinite Herbs will issue a voluntary recall and cooperate with an FDA investigation. Distribution Although infections have only been reported from seven states the affected product was distributed to and sold at…