Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) wants to see food safety agencies fully funded, especially in the wake of the huge cyclospora outbreak that has sickened thousands across the country. She sent a letter to the CDC’s Acting Director Bhattacharya and the FDA’s Acting Commissioner Diamantas asking them to reverse the cuts made last year. She said … Read more
Utah health officials are warning consumers about bird flu risk in raw milk in that state. At least 50% of dairy cows in Box Elder County in that state may be infected with the Highly Pathogenic Asian Influenza (HPAI), according to a press release. The county has declared a local state of emergency. A sample … Read more
On the topic of keeping frozen food safe: do you know about the penny test? Summer is the time for storms, from thunderstorms to hurricanes. And that usually means power outages. While most outages are over within an hour or two, some can go on for a long time. And, especially if you are away … Read more
The Hood Canal paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) is at lethal levels in Washington state, according to a July 2, 2026 notice posted by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). Paralytic shellfish poison is produced by some species of algae. This biotoxin can paralyze muscles. Shellfish, which are filter feeders, eat the algae and can … Read more
Keep your 250th American birthday celebration safe this July 4th with tips from the USDA. Grilling and eating outdoors pose special challenges for food safety, especially when the weather is hot. Under Secretary for Food Safety Dr. Mindy Brashears said in a statement, “The summer heat increases food safety risks, but simple steps can prevent … Read more
The risks of consuming toxins in fish and shellfish are highlighted in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly report for the week of June 18, 2026. The research covers reports over the last 23 years. During that time, there were 1,280 illnesses, 96 hospitalizations, and one death attributed to the toxins. Data from the CDC’s … Read more
Got well water? Learn how to test it to stay healthy. Most people don’t think about water when they think about food safety. But water can be contaminated just like food can. And if well water supplies your household with its drinking water, you should be extra careful, according to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension … Read more
Paralytic Shellfish Poison (PSP) has been detected at dangerous levels in Hood Canal, Washington. Lab testing detected lethal levels of the poison in shellfish samples that were collected near Union, as well as high levels in surrounding areas. PSP is a naturally occurring marine toxin that is produced by a specific algae. Since shellfish are … Read more
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is offering Memorial Day weekend food safety reminders to help keep you safe. This weekend is traditionally the start of the picnic and barbecue season, although the holiday itself is solemn. First, remember to always wash your hands before preparing food, before eating, and before packing … Read more
How do you know your infant has cereulide poisoning? This toxin is produced by some strains of the bacteria Bacillus cereus. This pathogen is found in soil and dust, and can contaminate foods like pasta, rice, and dairy products. When the bacteria grow, they produce the toxin. Cereulide is very heat stable, meaning that it’s … Read more