Food Safety

After 2 People Died, Panera Says It’s Phasing Out Its Controversial Charged Lemonade Nationwide.

As I sit here reflecting on the recent news that Panera is phasing out its controversial charged lemonade nationwide after two individuals tragically lost their lives, I am left with a mix of emotions and thoughts swirling in my mind. The fact that this beverage contained such an excessive amount of caffeine, essentially doubling the dose of a typical pre-workout booster, is not only concerning but downright alarming.

What baffles me even more is the lack of transparency regarding the ingredients and caffeine content of this charged lemonade. Why wasn’t it simply labeled as an energy drink from the start? The decision to market it as a regular lemonade, allowing customers to unknowingly consume incredibly high levels of caffeine, is not just irresponsible but dangerous.… Continue reading

The largest fresh egg producer in the US has found bird flu in chickens at a Texas plant

The largest fresh egg producer in the US has found bird flu in chickens at a Texas plant, leading to the destruction of approximately 1.6 million laying hens and 337,000 pullets. The impact of this infection extends far beyond just the loss of these birds; it also has broader implications for the poultry industry and consumers as a whole. With bird flu spreading uncontrollably and crossing into cows and humans, it’s evident that this is a serious issue that needs to be addressed promptly.

As someone who is conscious of the conditions in which most eggs and chicken products are produced, this news is disheartening but not entirely surprising.… Continue reading

Dairy cattle in Texas and Kansas have tested positive for bird flu

As a dairy farmer, hearing the news that dairy cattle in Texas and Kansas have tested positive for bird flu definitely raises concerns. It makes me worry not only for the health of my livestock but also for the potential risks to myself and my family. The thought of dealing with a disease that has a much higher mortality rate than COVID-19 is truly chilling. However, the reassurance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that the commercial milk supply is safe and the risk to consumers is low does offer a glimmer of hope in this grim situation.

The fact that dairies are required to only allow milk from healthy animals into the food supply is a critical safeguard.… Continue reading

Kentucky boy dies after eating strawberries from school fundraiser

As a parent, hearing about the tragic incident of the Kentucky boy who died after eating strawberries from a school fundraiser hits me to the core. I can’t even fathom the pain and guilt that the parents must be feeling right now. The fact that the family decided to leave the emergency room without seeing a doctor, despite their son showing signs of a severe allergic reaction, leaves me speechless.

It’s concerning to hear that several other individuals also ended up in the ER after consuming the same strawberries. This raises suspicions about the source of the strawberries and whether they were potentially tainted or contaminated in some way.… Continue reading

Ground cinnamon sold at discount stores is tainted with lead, FDA warns

As I sit here, I can’t help but feel a mixture of shock and disbelief after learning that ground cinnamon sold at discount stores is tainted with lead, as warned by the FDA. This news hit close to home for me personally since I recently purchased a container of cinnamon for my holiday baking and oatmeal spicing needs. Little did I know that I was unknowingly putting myself at risk of lead exposure by opting for the cheaper alternative available at these discount stores.

It’s unsettling to think about the potential health risks that come with consuming products that are contaminated with lead.… Continue reading

Mouse-infested warehouse lands Family Dollar Stores with record $41M fine

Family Dollar, a chain of stores widely known for its affordable prices, has landed itself in hot water with a record $41 million fine due to a mouse-infested warehouse in Arkansas. The company’s neglect of proper sanitation and pest control procedures ultimately led to the discovery of a shocking 1,270 dead mice in the warehouse after it was fumigated. This is not merely a case of overlooking a small issue; it is a clear indication of gross negligence and lack of consideration for the health and safety of both employees and customers.

As someone who has had personal experience working on HVAC and lighting projects for Family Dollar in the past, the news of their mouse-infested warehouses does not come as a surprise.… Continue reading