Author: Kit Redwine
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has posted an investigation notice on the agency’s website regarding an outbreak of Listeria linked to consumption of sliced deli meats. Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Background A significant number of individuals affected by this outbreak have reported consuming deli-sliced meats. As of July 19, 2024, health officials have identified 28 cases of Listeria infection linked to this outbreak across 12 states. The infections were detected between May 29…
Canada is grappling with a Listeria outbreak linked to plant-based milk products that has resulted in two deaths and multiple hospitalizations. This incident has caught the attention of health experts and consumers alike, challenging the perception of plant-based alternatives as universally healthier options, according to Global News. The Public Health Agency of Canada reported 12 confirmed cases of Listeria infection between August 2023 and early July 2024. The majority of cases occurred in Ontario, with additional incidents in Quebec and Nova Scotia. Most affected individuals were adults over 60, with ages ranging from 37 to 89. As reported by Food…
In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, content creators constantly seek new ways to capture audience attention. From fad dances to food hacks, trends can explode overnight, garnering millions of views. While many of these phenomena are harmless or even entertaining, some can pose significant risks. The latest trend raising eyebrows and concern among experts is the “sink drink.” This viral sensation, popularized by the content creator Tipsy Bartender, showcases an unconventional drink preparation method. In the video, various fruits, ice, and an assortment of alcoholic beverages are combined directly in a kitchen sink. The mixture is then served and…
A luxurious summer event in Millbrook, New York, took an unexpected turn when a widespread stomach bug struck attendees of a high-profile gala. The picturesque upstate town, known for its affluent residents and lavish events, found itself grappling with a parasite outbreak that left many of its well-heeled inhabitants feeling under the weather, according to Page Six. The incident occurred on June 15 at the Dutchess Land Conservancy’s annual Spring Barn Dance. What was meant to be a festive fundraiser quickly turned into a health crisis, with approximately 200 out of 400 attendees reporting symptoms consistent with Cyclospora infection. Cyclospora…
A recent norovirus outbreak associated with Sammamish Cafe & Spirits in Sammamish, Washington, a suburb of Seattle, has been successfully contained, according to local public health officials. The outbreak, which began in early July 2024, affected multiple patrons and staff members. Note: Another recent Norovirus outbreak in Seattle was just announced on September 13, 2024. Norovirus poses a significant health risk, particularly to individuals with compromised immune systems. What makes the virus especially concerning is that infected food often appears, smells, and tastes normal, making it difficult to detect without proper testing. Symptoms of norovirus infection typically include diarrhea, abdominal…
Greene County in Missouri is currently experiencing an unusual surge in Shigella cases, marking the highest number of infections in over two decades. The Springfield-Greene County Health Department reports that while summer is typically associated with an increase in diarrheal illnesses, this year’s Shigella outbreak is particularly concerning. Shigella is an intestinal infection primarily transmitted through contaminated water and can cause deadly endemics, especially in the developing world. Symptoms typically include painful bowel movements, high fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal cramps, and fatigue. In severe cases, Shigella may result in seizures, confusion, and dehydration, which can then lead…
Home canning has long been a popular method for preserving fresh fruits and vegetables, allowing food enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite produce year-round. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the American Medical Association (AMA) warn that improperly canned foods can pose a serious health risk, potentially causing botulism – a rare but deadly kind of food poisoning. Earlier this month, Food Poisoning News reported on a botulism outbreak at two family events in California linked to the consumption of a salad containing home-canned cactus pads. Ten people were hospitalized and two sisters were in intensive care as…
Suspected Food Poisoning Strikes Malaysian School A suspected food poisoning incident at a school in George Town, Malaysia has led to the hospitalization of 28 students. Nearly 500 students and 2 school staff were served a meal of fried tandoori chicken for lunch at the school’s cafeteria last Friday. Soon after, 28 of them began experiencing symptoms of food poisoning and were forced to seek treatment at a local hospital and a local health clinic. The Penang state Health Department said that a local district health office is conducting an investigation into the source of the food poisoning and have…
New Zealand Food Safety has announced a recall of imported sesame seeds distributed by Davis Trading Company due to potential Salmonella contamination. 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. Background The potential presence of Salmonella was discovered through routine testing. The affected sesame seeds were imported from India but were not re-exported from New Zealand to other countries. These products were sold at Davis Food Ingredients in Auckland and subsequently distributed to supermarkets and smaller retailers nationwide. The products have been removed…
What happens when a product that’s key to business operations gets recalled? Jess Nadel, owner of Beard’s Bakery in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada recently found out, according to CBC News. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency issued a recall on July 8 for Silk and Great Value plant-based beverages because of the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes (“Listeria”). Listeria is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with compromised immune systems. This recall particularly affected Nadel’s bakery, which relies heavily on unsweetened coconut milk in many of…