Historical archive · News21 reporting from 2011. Figures, laws, contacts and food safety guidance reflect the original publication, not current advice. Search this archive
A NEWS 21 NATIONAL INVESTIGATION

SLOW STATES
LEAVE NATION
VULNERABLE

The performance of state and local health departments, often the last line of defense against the spread of foodborne illnesses, is spotty and inconsistent, allowing outbreaks to spread and contaminated food to remain on the market.

State Reporting
National Leader
New Tests

State Reporting

State Reporting

A News21 analysis of federal and state records shows that differences among states in reporting foodborne illnesses hinder authorities in identifying the sources of outbreaks before they spread around the country, threatening more Americans with sickness and death.

News21 Database: Check on your state’s record.

Related Story: Computer System Tracks Foodborne Disease

National Leader

National Leader

One state has become a national model for investigating and reporting foodborne disease outbreaks.

New Tests

New Tests

Faster tests for infectious diseases that speed up treatment of patients could understate the incidence of foodborne E. coli 0157 illnesses.

Related Story: FoodNet Surveys Nation for Illness