Fewer Food Recalls but More Illnesses in 2024
In the past year, the United States has witnessed a concerning trend: a decrease in food recalls accompanied by an increase in foodborne illnesses. According to a recent report, while the number of food recalls has diminished, the incidence of Americans falling ill due to contaminated food has risen compared to the previous year.
Several significant occurred in 2024:
- Listeriosis Linked to Deli Meats: A widespread listeriosis outbreak was traced back to deli meats produced by Boar’s Head Provision Company at their facility in Jarratt, Virginia. The outbreak, which began in May 2024, resulted in 60 hospitalizations and 10 fatalities.
- E. coli Contamination in Fast Food: In October 2024, an E. coli outbreak was associated with McDonald’s Quarter Pounder burgers across multiple states. Investigations suggested that slivered onions used in the burgers might have been the contamination source.
- Salad-Related E. coli Cases in the UK: The United Kingdom faced an E. coli outbreak linked to pre-packaged sandwiches and salads containing contaminated salad leaves. This incident led to over 200 confirmed cases and one death.
Experts suggest that while the number of recalls has decreased, the severity and reach of contamination incidents have expanded. Improved detection methods, such as advanced genetic testing, have made it easier to identify outbreaks, potentially leading to more reported cases. However, this does not fully explain the rise in illnesses. Some experts point to lapses in food safety protocols and underfunded regulatory agencies as contributing factors.
B’H it seems that Kashrus standards shelters much of the Frum world, although the occasional outbreak is seen. It is incumbent upon both producers and consumers to uphold stringent food safety and kashrut practices.
- For Producers: Maintaining cleanliness in production facilities, conducting regular inspections, and adhering to health regulations are essential steps to prevent contamination.
- For Consumers: Practicing proper food handling, such as thoroughly cooking meats, washing fruits and vegetables, and staying informed about recent recalls, can significantly reduce the risk of illness.