Author: Kit Redwine

The July 4th holiday weekend, marked by outdoor gatherings and communal meals, sees a documented increase in foodborne illnesses due to warmer temperatures and challenges in maintaining safe food handling outdoors. Implementing evidence-based precautions can significantly reduce risks. Preventing Cross-Contamination Cross-contamination is a primary cause of foodborne illness outbreaks. Always separate raw meats (like beef, poultry, and seafood) from ready-to-eat foods (such as salads or fruits) using distinct cutting boards, plates, and utensils. After handling raw items, wash surfaces and tools with hot, soapy water and sanitize them thoroughly. USDA surveys indicate 34% of people fail to use separate utensils for…

The financial repercussions of foodborne illness outbreaks present a stark contrast to the investments required for prevention, with mounting evidence underscoring the fiscal imperative for proactive food safety measures. In the United States alone, recent studies estimate the annual economic burden of foodborne illnesses at $75 billion, encompassing medical expenses, lost productivity, loss of life, and related costs. Globally, the World Health Organization reports productivity losses and medical expenses from unsafe food total $110 billion annually in low- and middle-income countries. These figures far exceed the investments needed to mitigate such outbreaks through robust safety protocols. Outbreak Costs: A Multilayered Burden Food safety…

Morocco KENITRA – 29 Hospitalized After Food Poisoning at Market Twenty-nine people were hospitalized Monday evening after eating contaminated sandwiches purchased at a weekly market near Souk El Arbaa, Morocco. The victims developed symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain shortly after eating food from the market, according to medical authorities. Patients initially sought treatment at the local hospital in Souk El Arbaa before being transferred to a larger medical center for additional care. Most of those affected responded to medical treatment and were discharged the following day. Eight patients remained under medical supervision as of Tuesday evening, with hospital…

Researchers have developed a method to convert polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic waste into acetaminophen using genetically engineered bacteria, offering a dual solution to plastic pollution and unsustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing. This process eliminates virtually all carbon emissions associated with traditional acetaminophen production, which relies on fossil fuels like crude oil. Thousands of tons of fossil fuels are currently used annually to manufacture this widely consumed painkiller, contributing significantly to climate change. The Science Behind the Conversion A team from the University of Edinburgh’s Wallace Lab genetically modified harmless E. coli bacteria to transform terephthalic acid, a molecule derived from PET plastic via chemical degradation,…

The United Kingdom Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a recall for Eggshell Membrane Capsules from Orgenism and Raw Unsalted Macadamia Nuts from Grape Tree due to Salmonella contamination . Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections in animals and humans, especially those in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background No explanation was given as to how the presence of Salmonella was discovered in either recalled product. Distribution The recalled Eggshell Membrane Capsules from Orgenism were sold on Amazon. The recalled Raw Unsalted Macadamia Nuts from Grape Tree were sold at…

Dementia presents unique challenges in kitchen environments, where cognitive decline transforms routine food handling into potential hazards. As dementia progresses, patients experience diminished judgment, memory loss, and sensory changes that compromise food safety awareness and increase health risks. Understanding these dangers is essential for caregivers implementing protective measures. Physical Safety Concerns Kitchens contain multiple hazards for dementia patients, including sharp utensils, hot surfaces, and appliances. Impaired judgment may lead to accidental stove activation, increasing burn and fire risks. Knob protectors prevent unintended stove ignition, while removing sharp implements reduces injury likelihood. Lowering water heater temperatures minimizes scald injuries during handwashing…

Food poisoning poses distinct risks for children, whose developing bodies respond more severely to contaminated food and drink compared to adults. Contamination occurs when harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins enter food during production, handling, or preparation. Common pathogens affecting children include Salmonella (often from eggs, poultry, or produce), Campylobacter (from undercooked poultry or raw milk), and E. coli (from undercooked meat or unwashed vegetables). Unlike adults, children under five face heightened vulnerability due to immature immune systems and smaller body size, which accelerate complications. Unique Complications in Children Dehydration is the most immediate threat, arising from rapid fluid loss…

Outbreak Background – June 30, 2025 Update Federal health officials, working with state and local authorities, have been investigating a multistate Salmonella outbreak connected to whole cucumbers. Combined epidemiological evidence, laboratory testing, supply chain tracking, and traceback have established Bedner Growers cucumbers distributed by Fresh Start Produce Sales Inc. as the source of the outbreak and related illnesses. Multiple companies issued recalls for cucumbers and they should no longer be available for sale. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have declared the outbreak to be over. Case Count – June 30, 2025 Update Product Details – June 30,…

A voluntary recall has been issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Wiet Peeters Farm Products Limited, for various sliced mushroom products 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 potential for Listeria contamination was discovered by the CFIA during testing. Distribution The affected items were distributed to the general public, hotels, restaurants, institutions, and retail channels in the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec. Product Details BrandProductSizeUPC…

Multiple documented cases reveal persistent food safety failures in nursing homes, endangering residents through preventable violations. These incidents highlight both severe systemic operational and regulatory challenges. Case Study 1: Norovirus Outbreak Linked to Sanitization Failure Pine View Care Center (Wisconsin, 2018): A norovirus outbreak sickened 61 residents and staff after kitchen staff failed to monitor dishwasher sanitizer levels. Investigators confirmed the sanitizer injector was clogged, allowing contaminated dishes to spread pathogens. No corrective actions were recorded despite repeated lapses. Case Study 2: Temperature Control Violations Huddersfield Care Home (UK, 2024): Inspectors discovered dairy and meat stored above safe temperatures (8°C/46°F) for three…