Author: Kit Redwine

Supercan Bulk, based in Miami, Florida, has issued a voluntary recall of a lot of its Supercan Pig Ear Slivers-Thick Cut Piggy Ear Slices pet treats 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 The recall was initiated after samples collected by the Washington State Department of Agriculture tested positive for Salmonella. Distribution The recalled item was distributed to a North 40 retail store in Washington state. Product Details Consumer Action Consumers should…

From ancient times to the modern era, food poisoning has been an ever-present danger lurking in humanity’s food supply. What began as mysterious illnesses attributed to divine punishment or bad humors has evolved into a sophisticated understanding of microbial contamination and food safety systems. Throughout history, major outbreaks of foodborne illness have served as catalysts for sweeping reforms in how societies regulate, produce, and distribute food. These tragic events have repeatedly exposed vulnerabilities in food systems, forcing governments and industries to implement stricter controls and better safety measures. The relationship between food poisoning outbreaks and regulatory changes follows a consistent…

Salmonella Outbreak Investigation Continues into Rare Strain Affecting Dozens Health authorities are continuing their investigation into an unusual Salmonella outbreak that affected more than 50 people across the United Kingdom in 2024, according to multiple media outlets. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has been leading efforts to identify the source of the rare Salmonella Blockley strain, which resulted in multiple hospitalizations last summer. Between July 27 and August 24, 2024, officials documented 54 cases spanning three nations within the UK: 36 in England, 11 in Scotland, and 7 in Wales. The outbreak’s scope prompted the formation of a specialized…

Cargill Kitchen Solutions, based in Lake Odessa, Michigan, has issued a voluntary recall of approximately 212,000 pounds of liquid egg product due to potential contamination with a cleaning solution, sodium hypochlorite. Background In an announcement, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) said that the organization received a “tip” about potential contamination in the recalled products. Distribution The affected items were sent to distributors in Ohio and Texas and were then distributed to foodservice locations in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, and Iowa. FSIS said that there could have been further distribution to additional states. Product…

Walker’s Wine Juice LLC, based in Forestville, New York, has issued a voluntary recall of its pumpkin juice due to potential risk of Clostridium botulinum contamination. Clostridium botulinum is a bacterium that causes botulism, a type of food poisoning that can cause severe or fatal illness. Background An inspection by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets uncovered the potential for contamination in the recalled product. According to the recall notice, “the pumpkin juice pH was too high to be processed per Walker’s ‘hot fill’ schedule process” and “as a result, it was determined that no adequate kill…

In the age of instant gratification, meal kit delivery services have become a staple for busy households. Companies like Blue Apron, HelloFresh, and Home Chef promise restaurant-quality meals with minimal effort—fresh, pre-portioned ingredients delivered straight to your doorstep. But behind the glossy packaging and enticing recipes lies a question few consumers ask: How safe are these meal kits, really?  Is there a guarantee of avoiding salmonella, listeria, e. coli or other food poisoning? While the convenience is undeniable, the journey from farm to fork in meal kits introduces unique food safety challenges. From temperature control during shipping to the risk of…

Every year, millions of people fall ill due to foodborne pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, often traced back to contaminated food. However, an overlooked factor in many outbreaks is the presence of biofilms – slimy, structured communities of bacteria that cling to kitchen surfaces, protecting harmful microbes from routine cleaning. These microbial fortresses allow pathogens to persist on countertops, utensils, and appliances, turning seemingly clean kitchens into potential hotspots for infection. Understanding how biofilms operate is essential for improving food safety and preventing illness. The Nature of Biofilms Biofilms are complex colonies of bacteria encased in a sticky…

In recent years, social media has revolutionized the way we discover, share, and experiment with food. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have turned once-niche culinary practices—like fermenting vegetables, drinking raw milk, or dry-aging steaks at home—into viral sensations. These trends tap into a growing desire for natural, traditional, and hands-on food preparation, but they also come with hidden dangers. While a 60-second video might make homemade kimchi or foraged mushrooms look easy, the reality is that many of these trends require precise techniques to avoid serious health risks.   The speed at which food trends spread online often outpaces proper…

Hospitals are meant to be sanctuaries of healing, yet an often-overlooked danger lurks on patients’ meal trays. Just last week, reports surfaced of three deaths in the United Kingdom linked to Listeria-contaminated hospital desserts. While most people assume hospital food undergoes rigorous safety checks, the reality is more complicated. For vulnerable patients—those recovering from surgery, undergoing cancer treatment, or battling chronic illnesses—a simple meal can become a source of life-threatening infection. The risks stem from a troubling intersection of factors: weakened immune systems, high-risk foods, and the challenges of mass food production in healthcare settings. Unlike healthy individuals who might…

Food recalls are a critical safety net in our food supply chain, protecting consumers from potentially life-threatening contamination. Whether it’s Salmonella in peanut butter, E. coli in romaine lettuce, or undeclared allergens in packaged snacks, recalls are a necessary disruption to prevent widespread illness. But how do health officials pinpoint the source of an outbreak? What triggers a recall, and how is the contaminated product tracked down before more people get sick? This process behind preventing food poisoning outbreaks is a blend of epidemiology, cutting-edge laboratory science, and supply chain detective work. From the first signs of an unusual illness…