Environmental Health

Question

Besides Salmonella, describe a specific agent (either microbial or chemical) that is a public health concern and measures in place that protects us from getting food-borne illness?

Answer 1

Many examples of this, some bacterial, some viral, and still others parasitic in nature. Cyclospora, for example, a parasite that can contaminate our food and/or water sources and is associated with "food-bourne" gastrointestinal illness. Here's a comprehensive list from the FDA:

https://www.fda.gov/food/consumers/what-you-need-know-about-foodborne-illnesses

As for public health measures, an example would be the state requirement of food handlers to complete an online training course that teaches best practices for food safety to protect customers from foodborne illnesses and that of their employees, as well.

Hope this helps.

Best,

Todd