Author: Kit Redwine

Kratom, an herbal supplement derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has been linked to multiple Salmonella outbreaks in the United States. Despite its growing popularity for self-managing pain, anxiety, or opioid withdrawal, the unregulated nature of kratom production poses significant contamination risks. In 2018, the FDA and CDC investigated a multistate Salmonella outbreak tied to kratom products, ultimately identifying 199 cases across 41 states and 54 hospitalizations. Epidemiologic data revealed that 74% of interviewed patients had consumed kratom in powder, pill, or tea form, with most purchasing it online or from retail stores. Contamination Pathways Salmonella contamination likely occurs…

For international travelers, navigating tap water safety remains a critical health consideration, with significant variations between destinations. In countries like Japan, Canada, and Germany, tap water undergoes rigorous treatment and monitoring, making it safe for direct consumption. Japan’s tap water, subject to advanced filtration and real-time quality control systems like SCADA, meets stringent standards comparable to bottled water. Similarly, the U.K. boasts 99.97% compliance with water safety parameters, as monitored by the Drinking Water Inspectorate. Conversely, nations including Indonesia, Vietnam, and parts of the Caribbean pose inherent risks. Indonesia’s tap water, sourced from rivers and groundwater, frequently contains bacteria (e.g., E. coli), parasites…

Researchers at Cornell University have developed new recommendations for reducing E. coli contamination in romaine lettuce through targeted interventions across the entire production and distribution chain. The study, conducted by professors Renata Ivanek from the department of population medicine and diagnostic sciences and Martin Wiedmann from food safety, examined multiple factors contributing to contamination risks and identified specific areas where improvements could significantly enhance food safety. The research team found that contaminated irrigation water represents a major source of E. coli in romaine lettuce crops. Their analysis revealed that overhead spray irrigation systems using untreated surface water pose particular risks to produce safety. According…

The United Kingdom’s Food Standards Agency has announced a recall of multiple Ballymaguire Foods’ prepared meals and side dishes due to possible Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria) contamination. Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background The recall notice did not say how the potential presence of Listeria was discovered in the affected products. Distribution The recalled items were distributed to multiple retailers in the UK. Product Details BrandProductSizeBatch CodeBest Before DateClean CutBeef Stroganoff400 gramsAll Batch CodesAll Best Before DatesChicken…

Food poisoning extends beyond temporary gastrointestinal distress, potentially triggering long-term neurological and psychological consequences through complex gut-brain axis interactions. Research indicates that infections from pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter can disrupt gut-brain communication pathways, leading to persistent mood disorders, cognitive changes, and altered behavior. Neural Wiring for Aversion and Anxiety When food poisoning occurs, specialized neurons in the hindbrain containing calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) transmit distress signals to the central amygdala, a brain region governing emotional memory. This pathway “tags” novel flavors consumed before illness, creating lasting aversions. Princeton University researchers demonstrated this in mice: animals avoided grape Kool-Aid for…

When diners suspect they’ve contracted food poisoning from a restaurant, online review platforms often become the first outlet for their frustration. This practice, known as “review bombing”, or flooding a business with negative ratings, raises significant ethical and practical concerns. While customers view these reviews as legitimate warnings, restaurateurs and public health experts caution that unverified accusations can cause unintended harm. The Consumer’s Dilemma Customers who experience symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or fever after dining out may turn to platforms like Yelp or Google Reviews to alert others. For many, this feels like a civic duty, especially when they perceive…

Building a resilient, long-term food supply capable of sustaining households through extended disruptions requires meticulous attention to food selection, preservation techniques, and storage conditions. The primary goals are preventing foodborne illness, such as potentially fatal botulism, and ensuring adequate nutrition. Achieving this relies on scientifically validated methods for stabilizing shelf-stable foods and rigorous management practices. Strategic Food Selection: Prioritizing Nutrition and Stability The foundation of an emergency pantry lies in nutrient-dense, non-perishable staples known for extended shelf lives when properly stored. Bulk grains like wheat berries, rice, and corn provide essential carbohydrates and calories. Legumes, including dried beans and lentils, offer…

Hong Kong health officials are investigating two connected food poisoning incidents that affected eight people who dined at the same Mong Kok restaurant on separate occasions this month. The Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health announced Tuesday that it is examining the epidemiologically linked clusters involving seven men and one woman between ages 23 and 25. All of those affected developed symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting within four to 36 hours after eating at Deluxe King Japanese Restaurant. Those taken ill visited the eatery on July 10 and July 19 respectively. Two of the eight people…

Jewel Osco has issued a voluntary recall for several items with tuna salad due to possible Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria) contamination. Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background The recall notice did not state how the presence of Listeria was found in the impacted products. The recall was issued after another recall by Reser’s Fine Food because of potential Listeria in breadcrumbs that were used as an ingredient in the tuna salad products. Distribution The recalled items were…

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Natural Pastures Cheese Company Ltd., based in Courtenay, British Columbia, Canada, have issued a voluntary recall for Natural Pastures Cheese Company-brand Mount Becher Buffalo Medium Cheese due to Listeria monocytogenes (Listeria) contamination. Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background The presence of Listeria was discovered after testing by the CFIA. Distribution According to the recall notice the affected product was distributed in the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Ontario…