Foodborn Illness Special Reports

Special Reports ~FAQ's ~Resources ~Food for Thought

    • 3/3/2008

    Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement Protects Public Health

    The Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement, an unprecedented commitment to food safety, has released a status report describing actions taken during its first six months of operation. The report includes detailed findings on the 368 government inspections of leafy greens operations conducted from July through December. The report and more information on the LGMA can be accessed at www.caleafygreens.gov.


    • 3/4/2008

    Lemon Wedge Scare: An Urban Myth

    A sensationalized and misleading report concerning bacteria on lemon wedges currently appearing on the Internet is finding its way to the news room. In response, a group of leading US food safety scientists has issued its own report to assure consumers there are no worries when it comes to the lemon wedge in your ice tea.


    • 3/26/2008
    • Dr. Trevor Suslow, University of California

    Proper Washing of Cantaloupes

    Recent news linking Honduran cantaloupes with an outbreak of salmonella has resulted in some misinformation about washing cantaloupes to prevent illness. In this special report, University of California food scientist Dr. Trevor Suslow reminds consumers that the vast majority of fresh cantaloupes are safe to eat. As a precautionary measure, consumers may want to scrub the melons with water and the fruit should be eaten as quickly after cutting as possible. Caution beyond these measures is not necessary, yet some media reports offer consumers advice about what else they can do to ensure the safety of melons. Dr. Suslow sets the record straight here about exactly what consumers should and could do if they are especially concerned.


    • 5/14/2008

    Americans Fall Short on Food Safety Practices

    A recent survey conducted by the International Food Information Council Foundation takes a look at what Americans are doing regarding their eating and health habits. Findings indicate that while the majority of Americans "think" they know how to prepare food safely, less than half report that they do not follow simple procedures to reduce the spread of bacteria in their kitchens. The report and its findings underscore the fact that food safety is the responsibility of everyone throughout the supply chain from farmers through to consumers. Click the title above to read a summary of the survey or visit the IFIC website to vew the full survey.