Our Food Keeps Getting Recalled. Here’s What to Do.

Recall Surge

Food recalls have become alarmingly frequent, with recent incidents involving Boar's Head deli meats and McDonald's slivered onions raising significant concerns. Sanjay Gupta highlights the gravity of these events, noting that the Boar's Head recall alone led to multiple hospitalizations and deaths 1. Don Schaffner, a food safety expert, explains that recalls can occur for various reasons, from severe pathogenic threats to minor labeling errors 2.

People love to say we have the safest food supply in the world. I am not one of those people.

--- Don Schaffner

Understanding the nuances of these recalls is crucial for consumer safety.

   

Tracing Outbreaks

The investigation of foodborne illness outbreaks involves complex processes managed by agencies like the USDA and FDA. Don Schaffner explains that the USDA oversees meat and poultry, while the FDA handles other foods, with local health departments also playing a role 3. In the case of the McDonald's onion outbreak, the contamination source remains unclear, illustrating the intricate nature of tracing food safety issues 4.

It's like three things going wrong all at the same time. And that's what leads to the outbreak.

--- Don Schaffner

These investigations are vital for identifying and mitigating risks.

   

Regulatory Roles

Regulatory bodies like the USDA and FDA play crucial roles in managing food safety and recalls. Don Schaffner clarifies that recalls can be triggered by various factors, including potential allergens and incorrect labeling 2. He advocates for more resources for inspections, emphasizing that companies must prioritize food safety 5.

It's really up to the company to do the right thing.

--- Don Schaffner

Science-based regulations are essential for ensuring a safer food supply.