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Salmonella outbreaks are a serious concern for public health, often leading to widespread illnesses and even fatalities. However, there have been instances when these outbreaks inadvertently catalyzed positive changes in our dietary habits. While the consequences of salmonella contamination should never be underestimated, there have been occasions where such incidents compelled us to reconsider our reliance on meat consumption and embrace alternative food choices. Or, if you’re already following a plant-based diet, these outbreaks have proven your allegiance to a meat-free lifestyle. Together, let’s explore five instances where a salmonella outbreak made us grateful for the opportunity to skip the meat, highlighting the unexpected silver linings that emerged from these challenging situations.
1. The Fall of 2013
Source: FRONTLINE PBS | Official/YouTube
In the fall of 2013, nearly 40 percent of individuals who contracted salmonella ended up in the hospital. The outbreak is thought to have begun at Foster Farms, even though the company had been meeting all of the government standards. During this outbreak, there were 25 food-borne illness clusters.
2. Multi-State Salmonella Outbreak
Source: NewsNation/YouTube
In October of 2021, a salmonella outbreak spread across the United States from an unknown source. More than 100 people were sent to the hospital during this. Unfortunately, the CDC did not know the cause of the fast-spreading sickness but many assumed it came from undercooked chicken.
3. Shrimp Recall
Source: 11Alive/YouTube
Frozen shrimp were pulled from grocery store shelves as salmonella spread across the country. The CDC released a statement early on when 6 people had gotten sick and 2 were hospitalized.
4. A California Restaurant
Source: Denver7/YouTube
La California failed to get shut down by the health department for months after a salmonella outbreak affected 33 people and killed one. Eventually, the restaurant did close but not by order of the health department.
5. Italian Meat
Source: WGRZ-TV/YouTube
Seventeen states were affected by a rampant salmonella outbreak that the CDC said was from Italian-style meats. The 36 people first affected by the disease all reported eating various deli meats like salami.
While salmonella outbreaks are undeniably concerning and can have severe consequences, it is important to find lessons in challenging situations. These outbreaks served as wake-up calls, prompting us to reevaluate our dietary choices and consider alternatives to meat consumption. As we strive for healthier and more sustainable lifestyles, it is crucial to remain vigilant about food safety and continue exploring diverse, nutritious options that can satisfy our palates while reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses, saving the planet, and not eating animals. It is safe to say that vegans and vegetarians are thankful to not be affected by these meat-related outbreaks!
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