The CDC has significantly reduced the scope of FoodNet, a three-decade-old program tracking food poisoning infections, by narrowing required monitoring to only two pathogens: salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli. This change, which began in July, reduces mandatory surveillance from eight pathogens, with the remaining six now optional. While the CDC claims the change allows for prioritization and effective resource management, food safety officials express concern that the reduced monitoring could hinder the detection of outbreaks and obscure the comprehensive picture of food-related infections. This is concerning as FoodNet provided robust data, including case numbers, that helped to understand certain infections and risks in the food supply.
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The Boar’s Head deli meat plant in Jarratt, Virginia, is preparing to reopen following a deadly food poisoning outbreak last year that resulted in multiple fatalities and a plant shutdown. Despite the USDA lifting its suspension after reviewing the plant and declaring it compliant, recent inspections at other Boar’s Head facilities in three states revealed ongoing sanitation issues similar to those that led to the initial listeria contamination. These problems include product residue on equipment, blocked drains, and staff noncompliance with hygiene protocols. Food safety advocates and lawmakers have expressed concern about the company’s ability to address systemic issues, prompting questions about federal oversight and the potential risks for consumers.
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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is recovering at home after being diagnosed with intestinal inflammation due to spoiled food. He is receiving treatment for dehydration and is described as being in good condition. This latest health issue adds to a series of recent medical events, including a colonoscopy, prostate surgery, and hernia surgery. While his most recent public medical report from 2023 described his health as normal, there have been no official health summaries released in recent years, despite government protocols encouraging them.
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Over 100 children in Bihar, India, fell ill after consuming a school lunch containing a dead snake, prompting an investigation by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The incident, occurring at a government-run school in Mokama, resulted in protests from families and road blockages. The NHRC demanded a detailed report on the children’s health and the incident, citing potential human rights violations. This follows a 2013 tragedy in Bihar where contaminated food caused 23 deaths, highlighting ongoing concerns about food safety in India’s school lunch program. The Mid-Day Meal program, while intended to improve school attendance, has a history of hygiene issues.
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John Q. Hosedrinker