What foods do our restaurant inspectors not eat?

July 12, 2024.Reading time 7 minutes.

Their time in restaurants has given our investigators insight into a different question – are there any foods they avoid because of the risk of food borne illness? We asked a few of our inspectors and got all sorts of answers. That included plenty who said they didn’t avoid any types of food. For those inspectors who did avoid some foods, two trends emerged.

Learn how to improve indoor air quality with new training video

June 20, 2024.Reading time 4 minutes.

This training video covers the sources of poor indoor air and how to improve it through a variety of specific steps. This is especially useful if you own or operate a business, childcare, adult family home, faith-based organizations, or other area where people gather inside.

How I learned to harvest shellfish (starting with checking the shellfish safety map!)

June 11, 2024.Reading time 8 minutes.

A person’s legs in waterproof boots in shallow water at a rocky beach

While recreational shellfish harvesting is a year-round activity, it is especially popular in the summer when warmer weather and mid-day low tides make it easier. However, warmer temperatures can also create conditions for marine (saltwater) biotoxins. Learn what you can do to reduce your risk.

Ask a Tox Doc: Are “forever chemicals” in takeout food containers?

April 23, 2024.Reading time 9 minutes.

A variety of plastic takeout containers and utensils on a colorful background

Our toxicologist, Dr. Shirlee Tan, explains about why PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are a concern and what consumers should know about PFAS in food packaging.

Preparing for cold weather? Rodents are too!

October 24, 2023.Reading time 8 minutes.

As the weather starts to turn, many people start to spend more time indoors. That’s not only true for humans, but also for rats and mice. They’re looking for a place to stay that’s warm, dry, and close to food sources. So, as you’re preparing for winter, take steps now to keep them out of your home.

Making safer choices while back-to-school shopping

August 29, 2023.Reading time 4 minutes.

School supplies can have an impact on the health and safety of students in the classroom. Some common supplies have chemicals that can trigger asthma and other allergies. With that in mind, here are our recommendations for safer choices.