How Safe Is the American Food Supply?

Abstract

One thing that brings food pundits and Big Food together is safety of the food supply. Big Food obviously does not want to frighten or sicken its loyal customers. A major recall damages their brand. A national media report of an outbreak can have a major impact on the bottom line, and a major cover-up usually ends up in a turnover of top management. Food pundits are genuinely interested in the health and wellbeing of the general populace. Recalls, reports of outbreaks, and news of cover-ups verify previous warnings pundits have issued about dangerous foods, corporate greed, and irresponsibility by Big Food. Whenever there is such an event, Big Food cites it as an isolated event while food pundits suggest the problem represents only tip of the iceberg. Even consumer-friendly chains such as Chipotle, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods are not immune to food safety issues.