Food Science and Technology

FSM 403: How Food Scientists Are Revolutionizing Produce Safety

Transcript [Music] From Washington State University Extension, I’m Susie Craig. Here are five ways food scientists and technologists are improving produce safety:• Use of blockchain technology which enables real-time tracing from farm to table.• Smart packaging solutions that can detect changes in temperature, humidity, and even pathogens. Packaging ensures quality, food safety, reduces food waste […]

FSM 402: Artificial Intelligence in Food Safety: Smarter Decisions, Safer Food

Transcript [Music] Welcome to Food Safety in a Minute from Washington State University Extension. Can AI improve food safety? In a recent article from the Institute of Food Technologists, AI may flag a food safety risk, but humans still make the call. Artificial intelligence helps food companies move from reacting to food safety problems to […]

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 378: Food Safety Behind Commercial Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Part 2

Transcript [ Music ] Welcome to Food Safety in a Minute from Washington State University Extension. California has many dry, hot, sunny areas: Perfect to produce sun-dried tomatoes. After sliced tomatoes are placed on large wooden trays, they are often treated with sulfur dioxide. Sulfur dioxide prevents spoilage caused by bacteria or fungi, prevents browning, […]

FSM 377: Food Safety Behind Commercial Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Part 1

Transcript [ Music ] Welcome to Food Safety in a Minute. Enjoy adding sun-dried tomatoes to hummus or pasta? The next two weeks, we focus on the food safety behind commercial sun-dried tomatoes. Just picked tomatoes arrive by truck to a dry yard. They are washed, sorted, sliced in half, inspected, and placed in large […]

FSM 372: Coloring the Future Naturally: The Shift Away from Synthetic Food Dyes

Transcript [ Music ] I’m Susie Craig from Washington State University Extension. Did you know that 90% of the members of the American Bakers Association plan to eliminate certified FD&C colors from their snack and bakery products by December 31, 2028? FD&C colors are synthetic, petroleum-based dyes currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug […]

FSM 355: A Study on Nanoplastics and Pathogenic E.Coli O157: H7.

Transcript [music] This is Food Safety in a Minute from Washington State University Extension. Are you familiar with microplastics and nanoplastics? With widespread use, they are found throughout our environment, raising health concerns. Research on nanoplastics and their potential risks is ongoing. Food scientists at the University of Illinois are examining how nanoplastics influence pathogenic […]

FSM 347: Backyard Poultry: Ensuring Your Health and the Health of Your Flock

Transcript [Music] This is Susie Craig. Welcome to Food Safety in a Minute.Backyard chickens are often central to family life and your food budget. With the ongoing outbreak of bird flu, however, consumers have important responsibilities protecting birds, their families, and potential spread to commercial flocks. There have been confirmed cases of bird flu in […]

FSM 346: Backyard Poultry: Things to Know before Starting a Flock

Transcript [Music] This is Food Safety in a Minute with Expert Tips from Susie Craig. Given the price of eggs, are you thinking about a backyard chicken coop? “Don’t wing it,” says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Carefully consider whether backyard chickens are a good fit. Before getting birds:• Check neighborhood regulations.• Research […]