The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC) has expanded fish consumption advisories based on the results of ongoing testing for per- and polyfluroalkyl substances (PFAS) in bodies of water across the state.

A recent study of canned tuna packed in oil and sold in Europe revealed toxic chemicals bisphenol A (BPA) and/or glycidol in all of the analyzed tuna products. Mercury and 3-MCPD were not found at levels high enough to cause concern.

Approximately half of raw chicken sold at Lidl stores across five European countries are contaminated with antibiotic-resistant foodborne pathogens, according to the findings of a recent sampling and testing project commissioned by Essere Animali.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has provided updates on its sampling and testing activities of retail milk for the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viral fragments. Additionally, Health Canada and CFIA recently completed a study on pasteurization’s efficacy against HPAI in milk. 

Fresh prepared foods (FPF)—convenient grab-and-go and deli items that are sold at grocery stores—increased in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Demand for these goods has remained strong, driving an increased focus on, and need for, food safety for FPF. 

Researchers from Tulane University assessed the levels and risks of toxic metals in chocolates sold in the U.S., made from beans originating from different global regions.

The National Association of Wine Retailers (NAWR) has published a paper that provides a comprehensive overview of U.S. regulation of alcohol sales, the challenges within the current system, and possibly beneficial regulatory changes.

The EU Heads of Food Safety Agencies (HoA) recently published a list of 117 substances that should be prohibited or restricted in food supplements to protect public health.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a proposed exemption for certain cottage cheese products from the requirements of the Food Traceability Final Rule, fulfilling Subpart 204 of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA 204). 

So far, 12 severe cases of illness, including seizures, have been linked to the consumption of Diamond Shruumz brand mushroom-based chocolates and candies. The products are marketed as way to “microdose” (implying a drug-like effect), but also claim not to contain psychedelic substances.