Author: Kit Redwine

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…

A voluntary recall first initiated on June 10, 2025 by Big O’ Smokehouse Inc., based in Caledonia, Michigan, for two sizes of Whitefish Spread due to plastic contamination remains ongoing. Food contaminated with foreign objects, like plastic, has the potential to cause severe harm, including choking, injury, illness, damage to teeth, or even death. Background The product is being recalled because it is with plastic material. No press release was issued for this recall. How the contamination with foreign objects was discovered has not been announced. This recall is classified as a Class II recall, meaning that the impacted products may…

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 How the presence of Listeria contamination in the affected products has not been published. Distribution According to the recall notice, the products were distributed to a retail audience in the Canadian…

Dishwasher sanitization cycles are engineered features designed to significantly reduce microbial contamination on dishware through specific temperature protocols. These cycles meet standards established by organizations like the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), which requires a minimum water temperature of 150°F (65.5°C) during the final rinse to achieve a 99.999% reduction in common food-soil bacteria such as E. coli and Legionella. In residential models, this process typically extends cycle times by 30–90 minutes and employs internal heating elements to elevate water temperatures beyond typical wash cycles (which average 140°F). Successful sanitization is often indicated by an illuminated “Sanitized” light or dashboard notification. Key Mechanisms and…