Family Food Safety

FSM 397: Cyclospora Cases Rise Nationwide; Washington State Not Linked to Outbreak

Transcript [Music] From Washington State University Extension, this is Food Safety in a Minute.Since May 1st, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed thousands of domestic cases of Cyclosporiasis most likely linked with iceberg lettuce grown in Mexico. Caused by the parasite Cyclospora, most illnesses have been reported in Michigan, New York, North […]

FSM 396: The Multistate Cyclospora Outbreak is Solved

Transcript [Music] From Washington State University Extension, this is Food Safety in a Minute. There’s a multi-state outbreak of an illness caused by the microscopic parasite cyclospora. People become infected by consuming contaminated food or water. Symptoms typically develop about a week later. Symptoms include diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, […]

FSM 392: Peach Season in the Northwest – Preserve the Harvest

Transcript [Music] I’m Susie Craig for Food Safety in a Minute from Washington State University Extension. It’s peach season in the Northwest. There are many ways to preserve peaches: Canning, freezing, spreads and condiments including salsa and pickled peaches. There’s something for everyone! Find research-based, tested, food safe recipes and directions by visiting the National […]

FSM 387: Cleaning Your Gas BBQ Grill – A Quick Checklist for Food Safety

Transcript [Music] I’m Susie Craig from Washington State University Extension. Your gas grill will likely need a good cleaning before you cook out this summer. Start with a safety reset by using these guidelines to keep your family safe.• Clear away spiderwebs which may cause a flare-up.• Using a mixture of water and dish soap, […]

FSM 386: Food Allergies: The Big Nine

Transcript [Music] From Washington State University Extension, this is Food Safety in a Minute. A food allergy happens when your immune system mistakes certain food proteins as threats and makes IgE antibodies; eating that food again can trigger a reaction. Reactions often start within minutes to two hours and can range from hives or stomach […]

FSM 384: Dark Chocolate and Heavy Metals: What Consumers Should Know

Transcript [Music] I’m Susie Craig from Washington State University Extension. In 2024, a peer reviewed research study of 72 dark chocolate and cocoa products showed 43% exceeded lead and 35% exceeded cadmium levels of California’s Proposition 65 limits. Read the entire study by linking to Resources for this episode, downloading a free pdf. It’s an […]

FSM 383: Instant Read Thermometers – Why You Need One

Transcript [Music] Welcome to Food Safety in a Minute. I’m Susie Craig. How sure are you that your chicken is truly done? An instant read thermometer is the only dependable way to verify food safety, because color and juices can mislead. It confirms meats hit the USDA’s safe minimum temperatures—like 165° Fahrenheit for poultry and […]

FSM 374: Food Safety and Chocolate

Transcript [ Music ] Welcome to Food Safety in a Minute, I’m Susie Craig. Chocolate and Valentines Day go hand in hand. With low water activity and high fat content, chocolate is considered a low-risk food. However, food processors follow Good Manufacturing Practices and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point systems to ensure food safety. […]

FSM 373: Food Safety for Ramadan

Transcript [ Music ] From Washington State University Extension, this is Food Safety in a Minute. Mid-February marks the start of Ramadan for Muslims around the world. The exact date depends on moon settings. Ramadan includes 30 days of fasting from dawn until sunset. After sunset, families look forward to home-cooked meals and community events […]

FSM 371: Ordering In? Six Food Safety Tips for Restaurant Deliveries

Transcript [Music] This is Food Safety in a Minute from Washington State University Extension. Are pad Thai, sushi, pasta, chicken curry, or a meatloaf dinner from a local eatery arriving this evening at your home for dinner? Here are six tips to prevent foodborne illness. • Check restaurant inspection scores from your health department. Food […]