Foodborne Illness and Its Costs
What is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States?
Norovirus
What is the difference between biological and chemical contamination?
Biological involves pathogens, chemical involves harmful substances
What is a food allergy?
An immune response to a specific food protein.
What is food defense?
Protecting food from intentional acts of contamination.
What is the role of the FDA in food safety?
To ensure food is safe, sanitary, and labeled correctly.
Name one common symptom of foodborne illness.
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
Name one type physical contamination commonly found in food.
Hair, glass, metal shards
Name the top allergenic food that affects most people.
Peanuts
Name one strategy to protect food from intentional contamination.
Restricted access to food storage areas.
Name one law that regulates food safety in the United States.
The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
How much does foodborne illness cost the U.S. economy annually?
Approximately $15.6 billion
Provide an example of cross-contamination in food preparation.
Using the same cutting board for raw meat and vegetables
What are two common symptoms of a food allergy?
Hives, swelling, anaphylaxis
How does employee training contribute to food defense?
Training employees to recognize suspicious activity.
What is the significance of the HACCP system?
It is a preventive approach to food safety that identifies hazards.
Identify one demographic that is at a higher risk for foodborne illnesses.
Young children, elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals
What role do pests play in food contamination?
Pests can carry diseases and contaminate food products.
Explain the concept of "food allergy versus food intolerance."
Food allergy is an immune reaction; food intolerance is a digestive issue
What federal agency is primarily responsible for food defense?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
How often does the USDA inspect meat and poultry facilities?
Daily inspections
Explain how foodborne illnesses can impact public health systems.
Increased healthcare costs, loss of productivity, strain on healthcare resources
Describe how improper food storage can lead to contamination.
Improper temperatures can promote bacterial growth.
How can restaurants ensure they accommodate customers with food allergies?
Clear labeling, training staff on allergens, providing allergen-free options
Discuss the importance of a food defense plan in food establishments.
To mitigate risks of intentional contamination and ensure food safety
Explain the importance of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
It aims to prevent food safety issues before they happen.