US regulatory agencies want companies to take proactive measures to prevent food-borne diseases

Regulatory authorities in the US have warned food companies to take a more proactive approach in the prevention of food-borne diseases, as new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that more than half of all food poisoning deaths are a result of multi-state outbreaks.

Between 2010 and 2014, there were 120 multi-state foodborne disease outbreaks in the US.

Even when these foodborne events accounted for 3% of all outbreaks, they were responsible for 11% of illnesses, 34% of hospitalisations, and 56% of deaths.

Salmonella caused 63 outbreaks, while E coli and listeria monocytogenes were responsible for 34 and 12 outbreaks, respectively.

The US Food and Drug Administration, and the US Department of Agriculture joined the CDC in issuing a warning to the food industry.

FDA’s Coordinated Outbreak Response & Evaluation Network director Kathleen Gensheimer was quoted by Reuters as saying: "Reacting to problems isn’t sufficient in today’s food system, nor is it the best way to practice public health."

This warning comes as All American Meats, a meat supplier in Omaha, Nebraska, recalled 167,427lbs of beef products over concerns that they may be contaminated with E coli.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the ground beef had been distributed to retailers across the country.

After a portion of meat tested positive for E coli, the recall was issued. The affected products carry EST 20420 inside the USDA mark of inspection.

So far, there have been no reports of adverse reactions as a result of consumption of these products.

Consumers have been urged not to consume these products and return them to the place of purchase for a refund.

E coli O157:H7 is classified as deadly bacterium, which can lead to dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps that can last for two to eight days. Adults with weak immune systems and children are susceptible to illness.