The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CPSI) has published a list of the 10 riskiest foods regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Topping the list: leafy greens, eggs, and tuna. These and seven other foods account for nearly 40% of all food-borne outbreaks linked to FDA-regulated food.
Over 1,500 separate, definable outbreaks were associated with the top 10 riskiest FDA-regulated foods, causing nearly 50,000 reported illnesses. Since most food-borne illnesses are never reported, these numbers may be significantly higher.
The ten foods named in this study are:
- Leafy greens, including iceberg lettuce, romaine and spinach
- Eggs
- Tuna
- Oysters
- Potatoes
- Cheese
- Ice Cream
- Tomatoes
- Sprouts
- Berries
CPSI study authors say there is no reason to avoid these foods, but notes that the following passage of the Food Safety Enhancement Act by the House of Representatives in July, similar legislation is pending in the Senate to provide the FDA with enhanced authority to better protect consumers.
Meanwhile, consumers can protect themselves by washing produce thoroughly and following safe food handling procedures, such as those listed on the USDA web site: www.BeFoodSafe.gov
SOURCE: Leafy Greens, Eggs, & Tuna Top List of Riskiest FDA-Regulated Foods, Center for Science in the Public Interest, Oct. 6, 2009, http://www.cspinet.org/new/200910061.html
