An international group of scientists has declared that it is highly unlikely that SARS-CoV-2 is a food safety risk.The International Commission for Microbiological Specifications of Foods (ICMSF) is a non-governmental organization and represents top food safety experts from around the globe. The ICMSF members believe it is highly unlikely that ingestion of SARS-CoV-2 will result […]
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Whether you are new to canning, returning to canning because of the pandemic, or have always canned the bounty of your harvest, there are certain tips that will help ensure that your time and efforts lead to safe, healthy food for your family. Use recipes that are up to date. Some canning recommendations have changed […]
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More than 200 patients have been added to the tally in a Salmonella Newport outbreak traced to fresh onions. Over the last week, an additional 229 ill people have been confirmed, bringing the total to 869 infected people in 47 states as of August 18, 2020. At least 116 of those patients have been admitted […]
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The outbreak of parasitic infections linked to Fresh Express bagged salad totals nearly 700, with states in the Midwest particularly hard hit. The case total as of August 14, 2020 is 690 individuals infected in the U.S. Laboratory-confirmed Cyclospora infections associated with this outbreak have been reported from 13 states: Georgia (1), Illinois (209), Iowa (206), […]
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Stories in the news have prompted consumers to ask questions about the survival of the coronavirus on food packaging surfaces. Laboratory studies have shown that the virus that causes COVID-19 can survive on surfaces for up to several days and China recently banned food imports from several counties after finding viral RNA on food packaging. […]
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Whether it’s ketchup and mustard on a burger or mayonnaise used in a favorite potato salad, do condiments need to be stored in the refrigerator? Looking at the container for your favorite sauce or condiment, you will almost always find the words Refrigerate after Opening. My own home refrigerator has over a dozen such bottles: […]
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated their recommendations on food handling during this time of COVID-19. The recommendations are available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean. Highlights of the recommendations are: There continues to be no evidence that the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is associated with handling food or consuming […]
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have released food safety and health tips for celebrating this 4th of July. Planning to enjoy a picnic, barbecue, or meal under the summer sun on this holiday weekend? Remember to pack your picnic basket with food safety in mind, […]
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With warmer weather, many of us are heading outside and anxious to reconnect with family and friends. Even though there is no evidence that the coronavirus is transmitted through food or food packaging, being together with others does increase the chance of exposure to the disease. What are some best practices for picnics and potlucks […]
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The Division of Extension has developed info-graphics that depict best practices for gardening in community spaces this summer. A community garden can be a great place to meet new friends and exchange gardening tips. This summer of COVID-19 there are some practices that will keep everyone safe and healthy. Feeling ill? Stay at home. Garden […]
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