Author: Kit Redwine

A voluntary recall first initiated on January 17, 2025 by Health and Happiness (H&H) LLC, based in Orlando, Florida, for Biostime Kids Calm & Sleep Support Fruity Bites Probiotics and Prebiotics Fiber Sachets due to foreign object contamination is ongoing. Food contaminated with foreign objects has the potential to cause severe harm, including choking, injury, illness, damage to teeth, or even death. Background The product is being recalled because “metal balls (tiny non-magnetic metal balls measuring less than 2mm inside the gummies) intended for children” were discovered. No press release was issued for this recall. How the contamination with foreign…

Wild Coast LLC dba Wild Coast Raw, based in Olympia, Washington, has issued a voluntary recall of lots of its frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food due to potential contamination with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, commonly known as bird flu. The virus can be contracted by animals who consume the product and there is potential for human infection. Background The recall was initiated following tests conducted by the Oregon Department of Agriculture that identified identical H5N1 strains in both the affected cats and these products, with additional testing confirmation from the Washington State Department of…

In the modern era of convenience, canned foods have become a staple in households worldwide. They offer a quick, easy, and often affordable way to enjoy a variety of foods, from vegetables and fruits to soups and meats. However, beneath the shiny exteriors of these metal containers lies a potential threat that many consumers are unaware of: the risk of serious illnesses caused by improper canning processes. Among these dangers, botulism stands out as one of the most severe and life-threatening. The Science Behind Canning Canning is a preservation method that involves sealing food in airtight containers and heating it…

In an era where food safety is more critical than ever, the role of food packaging has evolved far beyond its traditional purpose of simply containing and protecting products. Today, innovative packaging technologies are at the forefront of the fight against foodborne illnesses, offering advanced solutions to prevent contamination and ensure the safety of what we eat. From antimicrobial films to smart labels, these breakthroughs are reshaping the food industry and safeguarding public health. Foodborne illnesses remain a significant global concern, affecting millions of people each year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), contaminated food is responsible for over…

Every day, millions of children across the globe rely on school cafeterias for their meals. For many, these meals are a critical source of nutrition, providing the energy and nutrients needed to focus, learn, and grow. However, the very places meant to nourish students can also pose risks if proper food safety measures are not followed. Foodborne illnesses, caused by consuming contaminated food, are a significant concern in school settings. Outbreaks can spread quickly among students, leading to widespread illness, missed school days, and even long-term health complications. As schools work to protect children from these risks, the importance of…

In today’s world, where consumers are increasingly focused on making informed choices about their diets, the global food industry is grappling with a pervasive and dangerous issue: food fraud. This deceptive practice involves the intentional misrepresentation, adulteration, or counterfeiting of food products for financial gain. From fake honey to diluted olive oil, counterfeit foods are making their way into markets worldwide, posing serious risks to public health and eroding consumer trust. While the economic impact of food fraud is staggering—costing the global economy an estimated $40 billion annually—the true cost extends far beyond financial losses. Counterfeit and mislabeled foods can…

When you order a cold drink at a restaurant or fill your glass with ice at home, the last thing on your mind is the possibility of getting sick. Ice cubes seem innocuous—just frozen water, right? However, the reality is that ice cubes can be a surprising source of foodborne illness. Contaminated water or unsanitary ice machines can turn those seemingly harmless cubes into carriers of harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This article explores how ice cubes can lead to food poisoning, the risks involved, and what you can do to protect yourself. The Science Behind Ice Contamination At its…

Ascent Consumer Products Inc., based in Melville, New York, has announced a voluntary recall of one lot of SinuCleanse Soft Tip Squeeze Bottle Nasal Wash System due to contamination with Staphylococcus aureus, a pathogen that can cause serious, and sometimes severe, foodborne illness in certain populations. Background In the recall notice, the company said that recall was “…being initiated due to a confirmed test result of microbial contamination of the product with Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).” Distribution The impacted product lot was distributed across the United States in January 2025 to retail and online channels. The company said that distributors…

Flying at 30,000 feet is an experience that combines awe-inspiring views with the convenience of modern travel. However, for some passengers, the journey can take a nauseating turn—not from turbulence, but from the food served onboard. Food poisoning from airline meals, though relatively rare, is a serious concern that highlights the complexities of ensuring food safety in the skies. As millions of passengers take to the air each year, the risks of foodborne illness at high altitudes and the measures airlines take to prevent them are coming under increased scrutiny. The Unique Challenges of Airline Food Safety Preparing and serving…

Insects are often seen as mere nuisances, but when it comes to food safety, they pose a significant threat. Pests like flies, cockroaches, and ants are not just unwelcome guests in our homes and businesses—they are potential carriers of harmful pathogens that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Understanding how these insects contribute to contamination and what steps can be taken to prevent it is crucial for protecting public health. How Insects Spread Foodborne Pathogens Insects are highly mobile creatures that frequently move between unsanitary environments and areas where food is prepared, stored, or consumed. This behavior makes them effective vectors…