Candy Food Poisoning in the Philippines Result of Poor Hygiene

 Posted on July 21,2015 in Foodborne illness

A recent food poisoning outbreak from a batch of candy sent nearly 2,000 children to the hospital in the Philippines. Nearly all of the children that were affected by the poisoning have recovered. Health Secretary Janette Garin indicated that preliminary lab results found that human skin and hair were likely the source of contamination in the candy. The contamination could be because the candy makers did not wash their hands or did not wear proper gear, such as gloves and hairnets, and as a result sweat and hair follicles dripped into the candy ingredients. Garin also noted that further tests had to be done to check for the presence of pesticides and toxic chemicals.

The company, Wendy's Durian Candy, has been ordered to stop manufacturing candy to avoid further complications. The company's suspension will be cleared pending the results of an inspection by the Food and Drug Administration.

Hygiene and Food Services

According to studies done by the United States' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, poor hygiene practices by food workers are a common cause of foodborne illnesses. Not only can foodborne illnesses create a bad reputation for a company or restaurant, it can also result in serious illness or death in extreme cases. In order to avoid liability for foodborne illnesses, food industry workers must practice proper hygiene when handling food.

Safe Personal Hygiene Practices

One of the best ways to prevent the transmission of foodborne illness is by practicing safe hygiene methods. Basic practices include:

• Thoroughly washing hands with warm soap and water immediately before and after handling food
• Properly drying hands with clean towels (disposable or not) or with an air dryer
• Wearing disposable rubber gloves and changing them frequently
• Wearing hairnets or tying back long hair
• Wearing aprons or long sleeves
• Avoiding coughing or sneezing around food preparation and storage areas
• Avoiding any food handling if feeling ill

Safe Food Handling Practices

Another way to prevent foodborne illness is by practicing safe food handling methods. The best methods for safe food handling include:

• Cooking food to the right temperature
• Ensuring that food is not undercooked
• Keeping food heated or cooled at the appropriate temperature
• Storing food in the proper areas
• Disposing of expired foods

Symptoms of Foodborne Illness

If one has been exposed to food poisoning as a result of poor hygiene or food handling practices, the following symptoms may arise:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Weakness

Have You Been Exposed to Foodborne Illness?

Symptoms of food poisoning often occur rapidly and resolve within a few days. However, the symptoms can result in more severe health issues in certain situations. Poor personal hygiene practices and poor food handling methods are often the cause of foodborne illness, despite rules and regulations implemented by health departments on the state and federal levels. If you have been exposed to a foodborne illness, it is urgent that you seek prompt legal service to assist you through this difficult process. The Law Offices of Newland & Newland consists of a team of experienced lawyers who are equipped to give you the best legal results in your food-illness related action. Contact our firm today to schedule your consultation. We make house and hospital visits upon request.