Author: Kit Redwine
New York health officials have issued a warning to consumers about unpasteurized raw milk from Willow Marsh Farm in Ballston Spa, New York, after tests confirmed the presence of dangerous Listeria bacteria. Commissioner Richard A. Ball of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets announced that raw milk produced by Charles B. Curtiss at the Saratoga County farm should not be consumed due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The farm has been ordered to halt all raw milk sales until further testing confirms the product is safe. The contamination was discovered during routine sampling by department inspectors. Officials…
Food poisoning is an all-too-common experience that can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. Whether it’s from a questionable street vendor, undercooked meat at a backyard barbecue, or a contaminated batch of pre-packaged salad, food poisoning can turn a pleasant meal into a nightmare. Recognizing the symptoms early and knowing when to seek medical help can make a significant difference in recovery and prevent serious complications. This guide will walk you through the signs of food poisoning, how to manage mild cases at home, and when it’s time to call a doctor. What Is Food Poisoning? Food poisoning, also…
Food is a fundamental part of life, not only as a source of nourishment but also as a cornerstone of culture, celebration, and connection. However, for those who have experienced food poisoning, the relationship with food can become fraught with fear, anxiety, and even trauma. What begins as a physical illness—often marked by nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain—can evolve into a lasting psychological burden, reshaping how individuals perceive, approach, and interact with food. The psychological impact of food poisoning is an under-discussed yet significant issue that deserves greater attention. The Immediate Aftermath: Physical Pain and Emotional Distress Food poisoning…
Food poisoning is a common yet distressing experience that affects millions of people worldwide each year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 48 million people in the United States alone are sickened by foodborne illness each year resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. Whether it’s from undercooked meat, contaminated produce, or improperly handled food, the consequences of consuming harmful pathogens can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening illness. While food safety practices are critical in preventing contamination, emerging research suggests that our bodies have a natural defense system against foodborne pathogens: the gut microbiome. This…
AKT Trading Inc., based in Torrance, California, has issued a voluntary recall of various vegetable products 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 The recall was initiated after the product was found at the Tokyo Central/Marukai retail store being sold under non-refrigerated conditions. The impacted product did not have a “Keep Refrigerated” label. The products have since been removed from sale at this store. Distribution The recalled products were distributed at Tokyo Central/Marukai stores in California: Product Details…
Music festivals and outdoor events are synonymous with fun, entertainment, and, of course, food. From gourmet food trucks to classic festival fare like hot dogs and nachos, these gatherings offer a wide array of culinary options to keep attendees energized throughout the day. However, behind the scenes of these vibrant events lies a less glamorous reality: the risk of food poisoning. Large gatherings often create the perfect conditions for foodborne illnesses to spread, leaving attendees vulnerable to unpleasant and sometimes dangerous health consequences. In July 2024, up to 500 people at the Download Festival in England were struck by food…
A voluntary recall first initiated on January 24, 2025 by Deiorio Foods Inc, based in Utica, New York, for 11” Gluten Free Friendly Cauliflower Shell 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 it may be contaminated with white plastic fragments of varying length and width. 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…
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…