The latest food recalls have left me deeply concerned. We’re seeing issues tied to facilities with inspection reports that range from shocking to outright horrifying. Whether it falls under the purview of the FDA or USDA, the pattern is clear: both agencies have allowed gaps in oversight that have led to preventable harm, including fatalities.
This is the real food safety crisis we should all be paying attention to—and loudly demanding change.
So... Let's just dive straight into "The Dirty Truth"... Round ....... 4 ..........
Between the shock of Boar's Head facility conditions to the shock of an E.coli O157:H7 outbreak to organic food recalls...
When is CURRENT FOOD SAFETY actually going to get better?
McDonald's, the Quarter Pounder, and E.coli O157:H7 Recall.
The recent McDonald's recall centers on an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7, primarily linked to slivered onions supplied by Taylor Farms' Colorado Springs facility. As of November 13, 2024, 104 people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O157:H7 have been reported from 14 states. Of 98 people with information available, 34 have been hospitalized, and 4 people developed HUS, a serious condition that can cause kidney failure. One death has been reported.
While this investigation into contamination continues, McDonald's has removed these onions from its supply chain and ceased sourcing from the facility indefinitely.
The CDC has determined that the public risk is very low due to swift action, but they advise anyone experiencing severe symptoms like bloody diarrhea or severe cramps after eating at McDonald's to seek medical care. Taylor Farms did issue a recall for their yellow onion. Other restaurants and food service providers who received onions from the same supplier have also initiated recalls These onions are past their shelf life and are not available for sale. The likelihood of contaminated onions still being available for sale is low.
E. coli O157:H7 can be particularly harsh, and has previously been associated with the deadly 1993 Jack-In-The-Box outbreak, which is featured in Netflix Documentary film, "Poisoned" (read more about this below!). That recall helped change way for beef production in the U.S. to this day.
Organic Carrots & E. Coli
Grimmway Farms Recalls Organic Whole and Select Organic Baby Carrots That May Be in Consumers’ Homes Due to Potential E. coli Contamination
"Grimmway Farms has issued a recall of select organic whole carrots and organic baby carrots that should no longer be in grocery stores but may be in consumers' refrigerators or freezers.
These products may have been contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) O121:H19. E. coli O121:H19 is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, elderly people, and those with a weakened immune system. Some infections can cause severe bloody diarrhea conditions, such as a hemolytic uremic syndrome, or the development of high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, and neurologic problems. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea, and/or vomiting. The incubation period for E. coli O121:H19 in humans can range from 24 hours to as much as ten days. The average incubation period is 3 to 4 days.
The following recalled products were shipped directly to retail distribution centers nationwide in the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada:
Organic whole carrots, which do not have a best-if-used-by date printed on the bag, but were available for purchase at retail stores from August 14 through October 23, 2024,
Organic baby carrots with best-if-used-by-dates ranging from September 11 through November 12, 2024. The recalled carrots should not be available for purchase in stores but may be in consumers' refrigerators or freezers."
FDA webpage regarding carrot recall: https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/grimmway-farms-recalls-organic-whole-and-select-organic-baby-carrots-may-be-consumers-homes-due
As if that's not bad enough, the recall has been extended recently to include additional products with carrots. This can include mixed vegetable medleys and such..
"4Earth Farms, LLC. Recalls Organic and Conventional Vegetable Medleys and Organic Whole Carrots, Containing Grimmway Farms Carrots, Because of Possible Health Risk"
The Organic and Conventional Vegetable Medleys, and Organic Whole Carrots subject to recall by 4Earth Farms were distributed to the following states: NH, FL, CA, PA, MN, IL, and CO, through both retail stores and distributors.
Product can be identified with Best by dates of September 7, 2024 through November 02, 2024:
Item Description | Brand | Distributed to |
Organic Broccoli Medley Wild Harvest 6x12oz | Wild Harvest | Albert's Organics |
Organic Broccoli Medley MKS Bag 6x12oz | Marketside | Walmart |
Broccoli Medley MKS Bag 4x32oz | Marketside | |
Broccoli Medley MKS Bag 6x12oz | Marketside | |
Broccoli Stir Fry Medley MKS 6x12oz | Marketside | |
Organic Broccoli Medley 4Earth Bag 6x12oz | 4Earth Farms | O.K. Produce |
Organic Broccoli Medley Wild Harvest 6x12oz | Wild Harvest | UNFI |
Organic Carrots 48x1lb | Grimmway | Kennedy Produce |
Broccoli Medley 4Earth Bag 6x12oz | 4Earth Farms | Sprouts Farmers Market |
F&S Fresh Foods Recalls Whole Foods Market Organic Carrot Sticks and Organic Carrots & Celery Because of Possible Health Risk Due to Potential E. coli Contamination
F&S Fresh Foods, Sacramento, CA is recalling Whole Foods Market 15 oz. Organic Carrot Sticks and Whole Foods Market 15 oz. Organic Carrots & Celery that should no longer be in stores but may be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers. The recall was initiated after F&S Fresh Foods was notified by Grimmway Farms that whole organic carrots supplied to F&S Fresh Foods may be contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (E. coli) O121:H19.
Fabalish Inc. Recalls “Kickin’ Carrot Falafel Bites” Because of Possible Health Risk
Grimmway Farms Expands Recall to Include Additional Bag Sizes Due to Potential E. coli Contamination
The recalled carrots should not be available for purchase in stores but may be in consumers’ refrigerators or freezers. The table below shows the additional bag sizes in bold and underlined font.
Grimmway Farms Firm-Initiated RecallThe bag sizes underlined and bolded below reflect additions to the existing November 16, 2024 voluntary recall | ||
Organic WHOLE Carrotsavailable for purchase at retail from August 14 through October 23, 2024 | ||
Label | Bag Sizes | These organic whole carrots were available for purchase at retail stores from August 14 through October 23, 2024. No best-if-used-by-dates are on the bags of organic whole carrots. |
Bunny Luv | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb, 10lb, 25lb, 50lb | |
Cal-Organic | 1lb, 2lb, 5lb, 6lb, 10lb, 15lb, 25lb, 50lb | |
Good & Gather | 1lb, 2lb |
Terms To Know
*E. Coli, Organic, Chemicals'
What is E. coli?
Escherichia coli, or E. coli, is a group of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and animals. While most strains are harmless and even beneficial for gut health, certain types can cause severe illness.
Pathogenic Strains Include:
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC): Includes strains like O157, known for causing severe diarrhea and potential kidney damage.
Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC): Often associated with traveler’s diarrhea.
Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC): Primarily affects children and causes prolonged diarrhea.
Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC): Leads to persistent diarrhea, especially in developing countries.
Symptoms of E. coli Infection
Symptoms generally appear 3–4 days after consuming contaminated food or water. Key symptoms include:
Severe stomach cramps
Diarrhea (often bloody)
Vomiting
Fever (usually mild)
In severe cases, E. coli O157 can lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), which may cause kidney failure and be life-threatening, especially in young children and older adults.
How Does Contamination Happen?
E. coli contamination occurs when food or water comes into contact with fecal matter. Common sources include:
Undercooked ground beef
Raw vegetables (like lettuce and spinach)
Unpasteurized milk or juice
Contaminated water supplies
Improper food handling during processing, packaging, or preparation can amplify risks.
Preventing E. coli Infections
Here are practical steps to protect yourself and your family:
Cook Foods Thoroughly:
Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Avoid consuming undercooked or raw meats.
Practice Safe Produce Handling:
Wash fruits and vegetables under running water, even those with peels.
Use a separate cutting board for raw meats and produce.
Avoid Cross-Contamination:
Keep raw and cooked foods separate.
Clean surfaces, utensils, and hands frequently when preparing food.
Check Recall Lists Regularly: Stay updated on recalls through FDA and CDC notices.
Drink Safe Water: Avoid untreated water from lakes, rivers, or wells unless tested.
What to Do If You Suspect E. coli Infection
Seek medical attention if you or someone in your household experiences severe or prolonged symptoms, especially:
Bloody diarrhea
Signs of dehydration (e.g., dry mouth, reduced urination)
High fever
Inform healthcare providers about recent travel or food consumption to aid diagnosis.
E. coli strains mentioned in the outbreaks (O157, O121, and O26) each have distinct characteristics, though they all belong to the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) group, which can cause similar symptoms. Here’s a breakdown of these strains and their key differences:
Understanding HUS Risk by Strain
E. coli O157
This strain has the strongest association with HUS. About 5–10% of individuals infected with O157 develop HUS, particularly young children under 5 and older adults.
Shiga toxins produced by O157 are highly potent, leading to severe intestinal and systemic damage that can trigger HUS.
E. coli O121
This strain also produces Shiga toxins and has been linked to cases of HUS, though the risk appears to be lower than O157
Outbreaks involving O121 often occur in dry foods like flour, where low levels of contamination can still cause illness.
E. coli O26
Another STEC capable of producing Shiga toxins, O26 has been implicated in outbreaks with reported cases of HUS.
The risk of HUS from O26 is slightly lower than O157 but remains a serious concern, especially in young or immunocompromised individuals.
How HUS Develops
Shiga toxins bind to receptors on cells in the intestines, kidneys, and other organs, causing damage.
In some cases, this damage triggers the destruction of red blood cells, which can block small blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to HUS.
Symptoms of HUS include decreased urination, fatigue, pale skin, and swelling, signaling kidney failure.
Key Differences in HUS Risk
While all strains can lead to HUS, O157 poses the greatest risk due to its higher toxin production and greater virulence. However, O121 and O26 should not be underestimated, as these strains also produce Shiga toxins and can cause severe illness and complications. The key takeaway: Any STEC infection should be treated with caution, and medical attention is essential if symptoms of HUS develop.
Key Takeaways About E. Coli:
Recent outbreaks have highlighted the risks associated with onions, organic produce, and potentially other unidentified products.
Understanding E. coli strains and symptoms helps reduce panic and empowers safer food practices.
Don't underestimate this germ!
Stay informed through trusted sources, including the FDA and CDC, and always adhere to proper food safety guidelines.
For more on food safety, visit the FDA’s Recalls and Outbreaks page or the CDC’s E. coli Resources.
Stay safe and vigilant about what’s on your plate!
What Does "Organic" Mean?
Organic food is grown and made using methods that are better for the environment and avoid artificial chemicals. Organic farmers don’t use synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Instead, they use natural practices like crop rotation, composting, and natural pest control to grow food.
To be labeled organic in the U.S., foods must follow rules from the USDA, such as:
No synthetic chemicals: No artificial pesticides, fertilizers, or antibiotics.
Non-GMO: Organic foods cannot use genetically modified ingredients.
Animal care: Animals must have outdoor access, eat organic feed, and grow without hormones or antibiotics.
Organic labels tell you how much of the food is organic:
100% Organic: Everything in the product is organic.
Organic: At least 95% of the ingredients are organic.
Made with Organic Ingredients: At least 70% of the ingredients are organic.
A few terms that people like to use interchangeably & along with organic, but don't actually mean organic:
Natural – This term is often used in marketing but doesn’t have a strict definition, and products labeled as “natural” can still contain artificial ingredients or chemicals.
Non-GMO – While organic food is non-GMO, not all non-GMO food is organic. Non-GMO foods may still be grown with synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
Hormone-free – This indicates that no hormones were used in the production of meat or dairy but doesn’t mean the food is organic.
Free-range – Refers to animals that have some outdoor access but does not necessarily mean the animals were raised organically (they may still be fed non-organic feed or treated with antibiotics).
Sustainable – Sustainability refers to environmental practices but isn’t the same as organic certification, which has specific guidelines for farming.
Local – Local foods are grown near where they are sold but may not follow organic farming methods.
Fair Trade – Focuses on ethical labor practices, not on how the food is grown or produced.
Clean – Often used to suggest a product is free from certain chemicals or additives, but it isn’t an official label like "organic."
These terms may overlap with organic values but are not equivalent to organic certification, which follows a specific set of USDA standards. Organic also does not mean, Higher Nutritional Value; Germ & Bacteria Safeguard; or many many many of the other misunderstood views that often accompany organic.
The term "organic" mainly refers to how food is grown and processed rather than its nutritional content. However, some studies suggest that organic foods may have certain nutritional benefits (& some studies show different... keep that in mind!!*):
Fewer Pesticide Residues: Organic foods typically have lower levels of pesticide residues than conventionally grown foods, which can be important for those looking to reduce their exposure.
Higher Antioxidants: Some research has found that organic fruits and vegetables may have higher levels of antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage.
Better Fat Quality in Meat and Dairy: Organic meat and dairy may contain higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which are healthy fats that support heart and brain health.
That said, the most important thing for good nutrition is eating a balanced and varied diet, whether your food is organic or not. Organic is just one option to consider when thinking about your health, the environment, and farming practices. Choosing organic helps support farming that’s better for the planet, but it’s important to pick what works for your needs and budget.
What Are Chemicals?
The word chemicals refers to substances made up of matter—everything around us, including the air we breathe and the water we drink, is made of chemicals. While "chemicals" often gets a bad reputation, they aren’t all harmful!
Here’s what you should know:
Natural vs. Synthetic:
Natural chemicals occur in nature, like water (H₂O) or citric acid in lemons.
Synthetic chemicals are man-made, like plastic or certain medicines.
Not All Chemicals Are Bad:
Some chemicals are essential for life, like oxygen or nutrients in food.
Others can be harmful, like certain pesticides, pollutants, or toxins if consumed in large amounts.
Dose Matters:
A key rule in toxicology is: “The dose makes the poison.” Even water can be harmful in excessive amounts! It’s the amount and exposure to a chemical that determines if it’s safe or dangerous.
When it comes to food, terms like "chemical-free" are misleading because all foods—organic or conventional—are made of chemicals. What matters is understanding which chemicals are used in farming or food processing and their potential impact on health and the environment.
ICYMI + Updates - Boar's Head Deli Meat Recall
Boar's Head deli meats have come under fire after a Listeria outbreak led to a big recall in late July. The recall involved several products, sparking concerns over food safety. News reports uncovered shocking conditions at the processing facility, including leaks, mold, mildew, and bugs—disturbing findings for a place handling Ready-To-Eat meats.
Maybe even more shocking?.. Boar's Head has 69 instances of noncompliance and concern documented over the last year...
View the list of impacted products here:
"A U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection report detailing significant sanitation failures at a Boar’s Head meat processing facility in Jarratt, VA, has revealed significant sanitation issues. This revelation comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to monitor the Listeria outbreak linked to the company’s deli meats. The inspection report, obtained by CBS News through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, documents 69 instances of noncompliance observed by USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) inspectors between Aug. 1, 2023, and Aug. 2, 2024."
Boar's Head has recently released a statement on this which can be found in full here: https://boarshead.com/products-recall-2024
The Boar's Head Listeria recall has now been deemed, "over". The outbreak is over. The investigation and monitoring is essentially closed. But the repercussions are far from over.
When I first heard of this recall and the concerns, I never imagined hearing reports of such horrendous conditions. & while it seems the concern is genuine, WHY did it take this type of outbreak to change ways? To actually seem to care? 69 violations in 1 year is A LOT.... especially when you look at the type of violations we are seeing... These unsanitary conditions have been connected to an outbreak that has resulted in 61 cases of illness, 60 hospitalizations across 19 states and even, 10 deaths.
As my friends at Food Safety News shared, some of the key findings from the inspection report included, is a list of some of the violations found at the Boar’s Head Jarratt plant:
One common thing I have seemed to notice.... many of these companies have had concerns documented in the past. Why didn't things change??
Boar's Head is not different. It seems their concerns, issues, and disengaged attitude has also long created issues for this dual-family owned business. Including lawsuits against each other for share holdings, trust funds, land and equipment, and so much more...
In fact, there are current litigations and such going on at the moment! - I found one 'suit from 2021 that appears to be ongoing in August & September 2024.... Many of the current back & forth fighting's are regarding the sealing and confidentiality of certain documents...
The Wall Street Journal did a great article and history run down of this family and company. Check it out here: https://www.wsj.com/business/boars-head-ownership-battle-brunckhorsts-bischoffs-93a163c6
ICYMI - Cinnamon Updates!
- A Spice That Continues to Give & Give...
Remember when the Cinnamon Applesauce Pouches were recalled due to elevated lead levels?....
Literally a year ago.....
Followed eventually by recalls of cinnamon specifically across a variety of brands....
As of October 2024, the FDA expanded its recall of multiple ground cinnamon products due to elevated levels of lead contamination. Several brands, including products from Dollar Tree, Patel Brothers, and others, were found to contain lead levels between 2.03 and 7.01 parts per million (ppm), which can pose serious health risks, particularly for children. Although no illnesses have been reported, prolonged exposure to lead can contribute to developmental and neurological issues, such as learning disabilities and lowered IQ. Consumers are advised to stop using and discard the affected cinnamon products.
This marks the 5th? FDA alert this year regarding cinnamon, as the agency continues testing products for contamination. It’s essential for consumers to check their pantries and avoid using these recalled products to prevent potential lead exposure
On November 18, we added yet another brand to this ever growing list of cinnamon powders with elevated lead..
IHA Beverage of Commerce, CA is recalling Super Cinnamon Powder 4oz, because it has the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of lead.
Remember, when in doubt, it's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to food safety. Stay safe & stay informed!
&& A Few More Recalls To Know About:
Sunfed Produce, LLC Recalls Whole Fresh American Cucumbers Because of Possible Health Risks Due to Salmonella
Rio Rico, AZ (Nov. 27, 2024) - SunFed Produce, LLC (SunFed) is recalling all sizes of whole fresh American cucumbers packaged in bulk cardboard containers labeled with the “SunFed” label or in a generic white box or black plastic crate with a sticker that provides the implicated grower’s name, “Agrotato, S.A. de C.V.,” (photos below). The recalled cucumbers were sold between October 12, 2024, thru November 26, 2024, and are being recalled because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.
Russ Davis Wholesale Recalls Multiple Products Due to Potential Salmonella Risk
Russ Davis Wholesale of Wadena, MN, is recalling multiple products out of an abundance of caution because they contain recalled cucumbers from Baloian Farms which have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
The recalled items were distributed to foodservice and retail customers in Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The product comes in a clear plastic packages of various sizes marked with a 7-digit lot code preceded by an “X” on the top labeling and a sell by or use by date located on the same label.
Gracie’s Kitchen’s Inc. Recalls Ready-To-Eat Products Manufactured Between 11/4 and 11/13/24 Because of Possible Health Risk
Gracie’s Kitchens of New Haven, CT is recalling all ready-to-eat fruit and vegetable products manufactured at the facility from 11/4-11/13/24, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
This list is LONG, so make sure to check it out if you are in that area! https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/gracies-kitchens-inc-recalls-read-eat-products-manufactured-between-114-and-111324-because-possible
Handsome Brook Farms Issues Recall of Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs Because of Possible Health Risk
New York, New York (November 27, 2024) Handsome Brook Farms is voluntarily recalling 10,800 retail units of the Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs sold under the Kirkland Signature brand name because these eggs have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
These units of the Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs were distributed into 25 Costco stores in the States of Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee beginning November 22, 2024.
The Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs with UPC 9661910680 are packaged in plastic egg cartons labeled with Kirkland Signature on the top. The recall only applies to units with the Julian code 327 and a Use By Date of Jan 5, 2025, which can be found printed on the side of the plastic egg carton. No other products are impacted by this recall.
Netflix released a documentary in 2023, titled,
"Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food"
& it literally feels like we are living 1993 all over again...
This documentary is based on a book, Poisoned, The Deadly E.Coli Outbreak That Changed The Way Americans Eat. by Jeff Benedict https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16057390-poisoned
This film also recently received a nomination for Outstanding Current Affairs Documentary for the 45th Annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards! - AND IT WON!!!!!!!
The documentary follows various foodborne illness outbreaks, primarily focusing on the last 30 years. It specifically starts by talking about a deadly and multi-state E.coli outbreak that occurred in 1992-1993. I was ~2 and 1/2 years old👶 & while you’ll learn that there were some “good things” gained from the horrible experience… (I won't *spoil* anything for those who haven't had a chance to tune in yet!)
This documentary features outbreaks of (scroll to the bottom to learn a bit more about each of these, including signs & symptoms and common sources!)
E. coli 0157
Salmonella
Campylobacter (not a major focus, but is mentioned)
Cronobacter sakazakii (not mentioned during this documentary, but the foodborne illness 'germ' that changed my trajectory .. just as many of these individuals describe as well. I will always share about this one)
We are FAR from “out of the woods” when it comes to food safety here in the USA..😞
That’s painful to admit.🥴
I now have a 3 year old son, myself.👩👦 As we can see from above, he has already lived through some major food recalls including the Similac / Abbott Nutrition infant formula Recall in 2022, the Hepatitis A outbreak linked to frozen fruits. listeria linked to sliced meats, salmonella & listeria linked to a variety of vegetables.... These are foods consumed daily/weekly by my kids. And quite frankly, I am becoming scared…😞😫
- WHEN is it going to change?!
The “world’s safest food supply” shouldn’t look like this.
Many of the secrets and covered up topics discussed, are exactly on par with what we have experienced during the infant formula recall and subsequent shortage. Learning these secrets during that experience has completely reshaped and refocused the trajectory of my career. and my life. Not unlike many of these key players mention in this film themselves.. It must change. We simply cannot wait another 30 years.. I refuse to have my son take my place in this fight. I refuse to hand this down to our children. We are not going away. We are not going to stop until the American food supply truly is the "world's safest food supply".
💔🍓🗣️🥬😞🍍👎🏼🥭😟🧀😩
Now, as Bill Marler says, “I think you just have to keep fighting the battles that are in front of you, and I still think there are things more to do... so I guess I got to get busy”
**special shoutout to all who contributed to this documentary! Thank you all so much!!
& @rosa_delauro - I think I want to be you when I grow up 👏🏼❤️🤩🍓
Here is another great deep dive on the documentary!
Alright, so before we end this one, let's leave you all with some information about these germs.. Learn more about these foodborne illnesses below:
| Symptoms | Onset | Common Foods/ Contamination Sources | Impact | Extra Facts |
E. Coli 0157 | Diarrhea (often severe, may be bloody), abdominal cramps, pain, fatigue, nausea ; Severe complication = Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) which can lead to kidney failure & death | Can release a toxin that damages lining of intestines' Typical symptom onset = 3-4 days, can be 1-14 days ; Symptoms often last ~2 weeks | Leafy Greens (Spinach, lettuce, sprouts, etc.), apple juice / cider, undercooked meats (cattle, deer, sheep), salami, unpasteurized milk, contaminated water ; person - to- person | ~70,000 cases of this particular type of E.Coli are reported each year. | Approx. 8% of E.Coli 0157 infections leads to HUS ; Can release a toxin (shiga toxin) that damages the lining of the intestines'. Can be killed in proper cooking methods / heat |
Salmonella | Abdominal cramps, pain, fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, chills, headache | Often ~8-72 hours following exposure (1-3 days) but can be 6 hours up to 6 days ; Symptoms often last ~4-10 days | Chicken, eggs, poultry, meat (especially raw/ undercooked), contaminated water | 1.35 million illnesses, 26,500 hospitalizations, 420 deaths per year | Some strains of Salmonella can result in Typhoid Fever, a deadly disease This is one illness that is getting some attention as discussed in the documentary - it's about time! |
Campylobacter | Diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, headache | Usually 2-5 days, anywhere from 1-10 days; Symptoms often last ~3-6 days | Usually 2-5 days, anywhere from 1-10 days; Symptoms often last ~3-6 days | Death is *relatively* rare unless in very high risk group -> is associated with higher risk of Guillian-Barre Syndrome, Sepsis, and additional, serious medical complications | Can be killed through heating and proper cooking methods; While death is reported to be "rare", infection in children under the age of 2 is fairly frequent and does have an increased risk of death/ complications |
Cronobacter sakazakii | Fatigue, poor feeding, fever, excessive crying, irritability, abnormal body movements/ jerking ; Can lead to serious complications such as Meningitis, Sepsis, and seizures | Likely to onset within hours on ingestion (~4-8 hours is typical) | Germ found naturally in the world, prefers dry places. Thrives in foods such as powdered formulas, powdered milk, herbal teas, starch based foods | A study in 2020 found that ~20% of infants who develop Meningitis or another blood-infection due to Cronobacter, died. This study also noted this to be 40% worldwide | Proper storage and preparation of these foods can aid in helping reduce transmission This foodborne illness will become a Reportable Illness (mandatory to report) in 2024! |
It should NOT be common practice for a simple food item, a basic need of ours... to turn into the very thing that is killing us. These germs are there. And we MUST demand more, demand better... we MUST demand for agencies to focus on these recurrent and costly problems.. for OUR SAFETY..
❤❤
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Jessica Enderle, R.D., L.D.
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