Author: Kit Redwine
Myanmar A foodborne illness outbreak occurred Tuesday in a village in Myanmar’s Tatkon Township. Both local residents and rescue volunteers who were assisting with flood response efforts in the area were affected. People began feeling sick late Tuesday afternoon after consuming food that had been donated due to recent flooding. Symptoms consistent with food poisoning included nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Patients were transported to various medical facilities for treatment, including the township’s hospital. A healthcare worker in Tatkon Township reported that over 100 people sought treatment, with 60 admitted to the local hospital and more than 50 taken to a…
A Los Angeles area restaurant was temporarily closed following an outbreak of Salmonella last week, according to multiple sources. Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious infections, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. The closure of Madre Oaxacan Restaurant in Valencia, California came after several patrons reported experiencing severe gastrointestinal issues symptomatic of food poisoning after dining at the restaurant. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed that at least ten individuals fell ill. The outbreak was first reported over the weekend when customers began experiencing…
Kazakhstan Sixteen students in Kazakhstan’s Mangistau region were treated for suspected food poisoning from their school cafeteria last Thursday. Initial reports indicated that a large number of schoolchildren in the region had been affected by food poisoning, with two children in intensive care. However, all 16 children were treated for fluid loss and discharged. The students were reported to be in stable condition and all returned to school the following day. The cause of the outbreak is being investigated by government officials. The school cafeteria has been closed pending further investigation. New Zealand Food safety officials have issued an alert…
Vancouver Island’s Island Health organization has issued a public health notice regarding a potential hepatitis A exposure at a Dairy Queen restaurant in Courtenay, British Columbia, Canada. The alert pertains to customers who visited the Dairy Queen Grill and Chill Restaurant located at 1030 Cliffe Ave. in Courtenay on September 10, 12, 13, or 14 between 5 pm and 9 pm Pacific Time. While the risk of transmission is considered low, Island Health has recommended precautionary action for potentially affected individuals. As a preventive measure, those who ate at the restaurant during the specified dates and times are advised to…
The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming the global food supply chain by enhancing food safety, transparency, and efficiency. IoT devices, such as sensors and RFID tags, are being integrated at various stages of the supply chain to monitor and manage food products from farm to fork. “This technological advancement is crucial in addressing the challenges of food safety and ensuring that consumers receive high-quality, safe food products,” says the nation’s top food poisoning lawyer, Ron Simon. One of the primary benefits of IoT in the food supply chain is the ability to monitor food products in real-time. Sensors can…
In today’s globalized economy, supply chain transparency has become a critical issue for businesses, consumers, and regulators alike. The complexity of the modern global food supply chain, which often spans multiple countries and involves numerous suppliers, makes it challenging to ensure that food and food products are grown, processed, transported, and distributed with safety and quality in mind along with a growing view of ensuring it is both ethically and sustainably sourced and farmed. This is where the collaboration among stakeholders becomes essential. In part seven of this series, we look at how through sharing information about suppliers, handling practices,…
Researchers at Texas A&M University are developing a treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs) that harnesses beneficial bacteria to combat harmful pathogens. This collaborative effort between the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and the College of Engineering aims to create a novel approach for individuals who tend to suffer from recurring UTIs. According to Texas A&M Today, the project focuses on utilizing a benign strain of E. coli bacteria to disrupt the growth of infection-causing bacteria in the urinary tract. To deliver these beneficial microbes effectively, the team is working on specialized slow-release gels that release the helpful…
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced a recall by General Mills Canada Co. of Kirkland Signature brand Greek Yogurt sold in Costco retail locations across Canada due to potential mold contamination. Mold can cause a number of side effects including respiratory illness, allergic reactions, and mycotoxin poisoning. Background The recall notice did not specify how the potential presence of mold in the affected products was discovered. Distribution The recalled Greek yogurts were sold in Costco retail stores in the following Candian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. Product…
Introduction Cutting boards are essential kitchen tools, but improper use can lead to the unintentional consequence of foodborne illness. Nobody wants to get or be responsible for food poisoning so this guide will cover best practices for choosing, using, cleaning, and maintaining cutting boards to ensure food safety. Choosing the Right Cutting Board Selecting the right cutting board is the first step in preventing foodborne illnesses. Nonporous materials like plastic, glass, or marble are recommended because they are easier to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria compared to wooden boards. Choosing the right material: Separate Cutting Boards for Different…
The debate over raw milk consumption continues to be a contentious issue in many states, including Nevada, where the sale of unpasteurized milk remains illegal. Despite health warnings from officials, some consumers seek out raw milk, believing it offers superior nutritional benefits. However, health experts and regulatory bodies strongly caution against its consumption due to significant health risks. Milk industry experts frequently address misconceptions about raw milk, emphasizing that raw milk is unhealthy and potentially lethal if consumed. This stance is echoed by the Southern Nevada Health District, which recently reported an increase in illegal raw milk sales in the…