As I look over the recalls and outbreaks that have occurred over the past few weeks, I see a list that reflects similar concerns from five years ago, 10 years ago and even 20 years ago and beyond. Currently there is a ground beef recall due to E. coli O157:H7, sprouts recalled for Listeria contamination, and a cantaloupe outbreak in Canada due to Salmonella, as well as one linked to charcuterie meats. There is even a public health alert for botulism and lead poising from applesauce. Baby formula is also making news again.

It may be a new year, but it’s old news in the world of food safety. I know we have made progress in many areas. Recalls fortunately happen before outbreaks, due to improved testing. There have been advances in technology and implementation by the industry has made a big difference. However, we can do better.

I think it is time we consider some food safety resolutions this year to move the needle further and ensure that our food supply remains safe and becomes safer.

1. A coordinated effort among industry, government, special interest groups and academia:

Each and every group with a focus on food safety is comprised of intelligent people who want to make the food supply safe. Fortunately, there are no two sides on the food safety agenda; we all argue for a safer food supply, no one argues for an unsafe one. The issues arise from agendas, be it political or financial or other underlying issues. The focus moves from a safer food supply to the agenda at hand, and in the end, everyone loses. The regulatory agencies lose the most being battered and scarred by the agendas expending their very limited budgets combating the warfare instead of focusing on food safety. Maybe we need to consider holding a summit to bring together the leadership from all areas to make a real change. Maybe more targeted Think Tanks should be formed to tackle issues in a collaborative environment.

2. Invest in research:

This is self-explanatory and yes, I have a personal agenda/benefit from this one, but it still needs to be said. The amount of research expended in the world of food safety is minimal relative to the funding for other health-related causes. The multi-million dollar funds from NIH or other agencies are not accessible for ag-related spending (food safety). It would be awesome of the political capital of the industry and the special interest groups to be used to allow scientists to access more money for research. Investment in developing new technologies and understanding the emergence of pathogens will make a difference.

3. Remember what we are fighting for:

At the end of the day, we are working to keep our food supply safe to prevent illnesses and death. We can focus on the statistics, but every number represents an individual. Each individual has a family and this is the reason for improving food safety and for keeping our food supply safe. Too many times we digress, point fingers at each other when the focus needs to be on protecting people.

I know these resolutions reflect big aspirations, but no progress will ever be made without setting goals and focusing on achieving better outcomes. Happy New Year to all of you. Let’s make 2024 the year of doing bigger and better things! It’s worth it for everyone.

Food safety resolutions

Join for free* to continue reading.