FAM-L02-Foodborne Threats-(C)-Prevention, Outbreak, & Emerging Trends

What is the purpose of the HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) system in food safety

To proactively identify and control potential hazards in the food production process

What does hazard analysis in HACCP involve

Identifying biological, chemical, and physical hazards that may pose risks to food safety

What are Critical Control Points (CCPs) in HACCP

Stages in food production where control measures can be applied to prevent, eliminate, or reduce hazards

Why is monitoring essential in HACCP

To ensure control measures are effective in preventing food safety hazards

What are corrective actions in HACCP

Steps taken to prevent unsafe food from reaching consumers when deviations from critical limits occur

What role do government agencies play in food safety

They establish and enforce food safety standards through regulations and inspections

Why are food safety regulations important

They govern food production, processing, distribution, and labeling to ensure compliance with safety standards

Why is food labeling important for consumers

It provides information on allergens, ingredients, and storage instructions for safer food choices

What is the purpose of consumer complaint mechanisms in food safety

To allow consumers to report foodborne illnesses and provide feedback on safety issues

What was the purpose of the epidemiological investigation in Rizal

To identify the source of the outbreak and implement control measures

How were cases of gastrointestinal illness identified during the outbreak (Rizal)

Healthcare providers and laboratories reported cases to the health department, and patients were interviewed

What was the role of epidemiological analysis in the outbreak investigation (Rizal)

To identify common exposures among cases and determine potential sources of contamination

What laboratory tests were conducted to confirm the cause of the outbreak (Rizal)

Stool samples were tested for bacterial pathogens, including Salmonella

What did the case-control study reveal about the source of the outbreak (Rizal)

A significant association was found between illness and consumption of pre-packaged salad greens

What pathogen was identified in laboratory-confirmed cases

Salmonella enterica serotype Typhimurium

How was the genetic relationship between Salmonella isolates determined

Further genetic testing confirmed the isolates were closely related, indicating a common source

What control measure was taken to remove contaminated products from circulation

A voluntary recall of pre-packaged salad greens from the implicated grocery store chain

How were consumers informed about the outbreak and safety precautions

Public health officials issued alerts through media, social media, and community organizations

What are emerging challenges to food safety due to global travel, trade, and environmental factors

New and emerging pathogens such as zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial-resistant pathogens

What are zoonotic diseases, and how do they relate to foodborne illnesses

Pathogens originating in animals that can spill over into humans through contaminated animal products or contact with infected animals

Why is antimicrobial resistance among foodborne pathogens a public health concern

It complicates treatment options, as pathogens like multidrug-resistant Salmonella and Campylobacter require stronger antibiotics

What is an example of an antibiotic-resistant E. coli strain

Amoxicillin-resistant E. coli, which may require stronger antibiotics for treatment

Why is hydration therapy the mainstay of treatment for foodborne illnesses

It prevents dehydration, though severe infections could cause chronic diarrhea and complications

How does globalization impact the transmission of foodborne diseases

It facilitates international food trade, making it harder to track and control contaminated food sources

What is an example of a globalization-related food safety concern

If McDonald's imported potato fries were contaminated, tracing the source would require international investigation

How does climate change impact foodborne illnesses

Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affect pathogen survival, agricultural practices, and disease prevalence

What is the benefit of point-of-care testing for foodborne illnesses

It allows on-site testing in clinical and food production settings for early outbreak detection and response

What are biocontrol strategies in food safety

They involve using bacteriophages, probiotics, and biological agents to control pathogen growth in food environments

What is an example of a probiotic used in medical settings

Erceflora, a probiotic in an ampoule given to children but also suitable for adults

Why is Yakult not considered a medical probiotic

It is a consumer probiotic drink not used in medical settings