Category Archives: Food Safety Articles

Proper Handwashing and Food Safety

Global Handwashing Day is observed annually October 15th. Keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps we can take to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others.
Hand washing is essential in preventing contamination of food by food handlers. The spread of germs from the hands of food handling and service workers to food is an important cause of foodborne illness outbreaks in restaurants.

Food Safety Tips for Farmers Markets

National Farmer’s Day is observed annually on October 12th as a day to pay tribute to all farmers throughout American history who put food in the grocery stores and on our tables every day. Support your local farmer by shopping at a farmers market.
Food safety rules for farmers markets and vendors widely differ from state and local governments. To ensure food safety, there are basic guidelines that you should follow to ensure that – not only farm-fresh food – but all the food you buy is safe.

Food Contamination Limits Allowed by Law

It is understandable that in the production of our food – some unwanted additions are to be expected. But, the minimum amount of “defects” allowed in food by the FDA might surprise you.
The Food Defect Action Levels Handbook by the FDA details the acceptable levels of food contamination from sources such as maggots, thrips, insect fragments, “foreign matter”, mold, rodent hairs, and insect and mammalian feces.

National Taco Day Food Safety and Deals

National Taco Day is October 4th and if you plan on having your own fiesta and making your world famous tacos – it’s a good time to brush up on the proper food safety procedures for preparing and serving your tacos.
Also, use the hashtag #NationalTacoDay on social media to find the best National Taco Day deals.

Mercury Exposure Guidelines for Eating Fish

Learn more how federal, state and local governments issue fish consumption advisories for people to avoid eating certain kinds or certain amounts of fish.
Some fish may contain mercury or other harmful chemicals. The FDA and EPA have recently revised their fish consumption guidance for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and young children.

Food Safety for National Pizza Month

The time has come to celebrate America’s favorite food – covered with warm gooey cheese and your favorite toppings – encased in a sturdy crust. That’s right – October is National Pizza Month!
It is also a perfect time to practice safe food principles when it comes to leftovers – because by leaving your pizza out at room temperature too long – increases your risk of a foodborne illness.
Use the hashtag #NationalPizzaMonth all month on social media – to find pizza deals!

Dangers of Listeria

Listeria is a harmful foodborne bacteria found in ready-to-eat and unpasteurized (raw) milk and milk products – and can cause invasive severe human illness (listeriosis) in susceptible people.
Unlike most bacteria, Listeria survive and multiply at lower (refrigerator) temperatures – which allows it to reach levels high enough to cause illness. 
Pregnant women run a serious risk of becoming ill from the bacteria Listeria – which can cause miscarriage, or create illness, or death, of the newborn baby.