Author: Kit Redwine
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…
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…