Listeria, E. Coli, And Salmonella Outbreaks | Thanksgiving WARNING

Several foodborne illness outbreaks, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria, are occurring ahead of Thanksgiving, impacting various food items like eggs, carrots, and ground beef. Consumers are advised to be aware of recalls and properly cook food to avoid illness, with specific temperature recommendations provided for various food types. The speaker emphasizes that while turkey and other Thanksgiving food prices are decreasing, food safety concerns remain, and consumers should exercise caution.

Food Recalls Before Thanksgiving

• 00:00:54 Several food brands have been linked to potential E. coli and Listeria contamination, including Costco recalling over 250,000 eggs due to potential Salmonella contamination just days before Thanksgiving. Organic carrots from Grimmway Farms have also been recalled due to an E. coli outbreak, affecting various retailers like Trader Joe's and Wegmans.

E. coli Contamination

• 00:03:08 E. coli outbreaks are a concern, especially with the organic carrot recall, as it's difficult to wash off the bacteria. Ground beef is another potential source, with Wolverine Packing Company recalling 160,000 pounds of ground beef due to potential E. coli contamination. The speaker emphasizes that the potential contamination of commonly used foods presents a significant concern for Thanksgiving meals.

Food Safety Tips

• 00:06:42 Proper food handling and cooking are crucial to avoid foodborne illnesses. The speaker mentions that undercooked turkey and chicken, along with other meats, can lead to sickness. Recommended internal temperatures for various food types are provided to ensure safe consumption, emphasizing that proper cooking is essential for food safety.

Thanksgiving Store Closures

• 00:07:30 Many stores will be closed for Thanksgiving, potentially leaving shoppers without necessary items for their meals. The speaker mentions that gas stations and convenience stores might remain open. This aspect of the podcast emphasizes the potential inconvenience for consumers who haven't finished their Thanksgiving shopping.

Thanksgiving Food Prices

• 00:08:21 While avian flu and other factors have influenced food prices, turkey, chicken, and other Thanksgiving food items have become slightly less expensive. Egg prices remain significantly higher, up 30%, but the general trend is towards lower prices for holiday meals. This information may be relevant for shoppers planning their Thanksgiving meals.