The strawberries, distributed by a California company, originated in Mexico, although it is not clear at this time how they became infected. It is also unclear what threat food imports pose to the U.S. food supply. The opportunity for one lot of contaminated product to infect people in widely scattered spots has increased dramatically. The recent outbreak of hepatitis in strawberries is a good example of how contamination of one batch of food product can have implications in several states because the food is distributed so widely. Inspection alone won't guarantee a problem-free food supply.
Consumers have a large role.
Proper handling, storage, and preparation of food is getting renewed attention this week. But food safety education for consumers has been a long time role for many agencies ranging from ODA to local health departments to university extension. Industry has been receiving both inspection services and education from ODA's Food Safety Division for years. Originally, the inspection program focused on making sure sanitary conditions prevailed at those places where food is prepared or delivered. It was important that food equipment and counter tops were free of dirt and grime.