Author: Kit Redwine

Manure, a traditional fertilizer in agriculture, plays a dual role as both a nutrient-rich soil enhancer and a potential source of foodborne pathogens. While it offers an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fertilizers, improper handling can introduce harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria into the food supply, posing risks to public health. Pathogens from livestock waste can contaminate crops through multiple pathways. Fresh manure, if not properly treated, often contains high levels of microbes. When applied to fields, rain or irrigation can spread these pathogens to nearby produce or water sources. Leafy greens, often consumed raw, are particularly…

Food safety remains a critical concern for young children, yet research suggests many parents may underestimate risks when feeding toddlers. Health experts attribute this gap to factors ranging from misinformation to logistical challenges, emphasizing the need for targeted education to protect vulnerable populations. Toddlers are particularly susceptible to foodborne illnesses due to developing immune systems and behaviors like frequent hand-to-mouth contact. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that children under five face higher rates of infections from pathogens such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Additionally, choking hazards, such as whole grapes, nuts, and hard candies, account…

The act of “double dipping”, dipping a food item into a shared sauce, taking a bite, and re-dipping, has long been a topic of both social debate and scientific inquiry. While some view it as a minor breach of party etiquette, research highlights potential health risks, creating a tension between cultural norms and microbiological evidence. Scientific Insights into Bacterial Transfer One study examined the bacterial transfer caused by double dipping. Researchers found that biting a cracker or vegetable and re-dipping it introduces saliva into the shared container, potentially contaminating the dip with oral bacteria. In experiments, dips like salsa, cheese,…

Cronobacter, a rare but potentially deadly bacterium, has drawn increased attention from global health agencies due to its association with powdered infant formula. Known to cause severe infections in infants, particularly those under two months old, Cronobacter sakazakii poses significant risks, including meningitis, sepsis, and in some cases, death. Despite its low incidence, the pathogen’s high fatality rate, up to 40% in reported cases, has spurred calls for heightened awareness and stricter safety protocols in formula production and preparation.   Sources and Contamination Pathways Cronobacter naturally occurs in the environment, often found in soil, water, and dry foods. In powdered infant…

Costco has announced a recall by San Juan Salsa Co., based in Arlington, Washington, of several types of salsa due to contamination with pieces of wood. Food contaminated with foreign objects, such as wood, has the potential to cause severe harm, including choking, injury, illness, damage to teeth and tongue, or even death. Background San Juan Salsa Co. said they were notified by a supplier, SupHerb Farms, that a lot of its large cut cilantro was being recalled due to potential contamination with wood particles. That lot was used as an ingredient of the recalled lots of salsa. Distribution Costco’s…

Sprouts, celebrated for their nutritional benefits and crisp texture, continue to pose significant food safety challenges, linked to recurring outbreaks of foodborne illnesses worldwide. This includes of dangerous bacteria like salmonella and e. coli. Health experts and regulatory agencies attribute this risk to the unique growing conditions of sprouts and inherent vulnerabilities in their production process, despite ongoing efforts to improve safety protocols.   Sprouts, such as alfalfa, bean, and broccoli varieties, are grown from seeds in warm, humid environments, ideal for bacterial growth. These conditions, necessary for germination, also foster pathogens like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria if present on…

The debate over raw milk cheeses continues to simmer as artisanal producers and food safety advocates grapple with balancing tradition and public health. Made from unpasteurized milk, these cheeses are celebrated for their complex flavors and cultural heritage, yet scrutinized for potential risks linked to harmful bacteria. Rooted in centuries-old practices, raw milk cheesemaking remains a cornerstone of culinary traditions in regions like France, Italy, and Switzerland. Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status safeguards many varieties, such as Roquefort and Comté, mandating traditional methods, including raw milk use. Artisans argue that unpasteurized milk preserves native microbes and terroir, the environmental…

A recall first initiated on March 10, 2025 by New York Wholesale Group, based in Hicksville, New York, of Zaarah Herbals-brand Bhringraj Powder due to contamination with elevated levels of lead and arsenic and Zaarah Herbals-brand Gurmar Powder, Vasaka Powder, and Rasayan Churan due to contamination with elevated levels of lead remains ongoing. Lead is a neurotoxin that can affect nearly every system in the human body and is especially dangerous for young children. Arsenic poisoning can cause a variety of health problems from minor symptoms to deadly conditions. Background No press release was issued for these recalls. How the…

The Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District, in Edinburg, Texas, announced the partial closure of Canterbury Elementary School after discovering E. coli contamination in floorboards and walls following a sewage overflow incident. The district held a press conference Monday at the school to outline relocation plans for affected students and detail safety measures being implemented, according to valleycentral.com. According to district officials, the initial sewage issue was reported on March 29, prompting overnight mitigation work by maintenance crews. The City of Edinburg subsequently evaluated the campus and cleared it for reopening, stating no airborne contaminants were detected. However, more than a…

Pre-washed salad greens, marketed for their convenience and readiness to eat, have become a staple in households worldwide. However, recurring foodborne illness outbreaks linked to these products reveal systemic vulnerabilities in their production and handling. Food safety experts and recent studies highlight these persistent contamination risks, raising questions about the safety of bagged greens despite industry assurances. Contamination Pathways Leafy greens are particularly susceptible to contamination due to their growth close to the ground and exposure to environmental pathogens. Irrigation water contaminated by runoff from nearby livestock operations, such as cattle feedlots, is a primary vector for harmful bacteria like…