SUMMARY NOTES • To address the growing concern of responding to foodborne disease (FBD) threats, other emerging infectious diseases, or acts of bioterrorism in a timely and effective manner, the PulseNet International network was established.

URBANA -- When asked to compare apples to apples, consumers said they would pay more for locally grown apples than genetically modified (GMO) apples. But in a second questionnaire consumers preferred GMO apples – that is, when they were described, not as GMO, but as having a Reduced Environmental Impact.

Animal studies suggest that adding flaxseed oil to the diet could reduce the risk of osteoporosis in post-menopausal women and women with diabetes, according to a report to be published in the International Journal of Food Safety, Nutrition and Public Health.

Abstract Background

A petting farm in North Yorkshire that closed when cases of E. coli were confirmed in visitors, has reopened. Part of the Big Sheep and Little Cow Farm in Bedale closed voluntarily in September but has now been given the all-clear by health officials. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said seven children and one adult who visited the farm were affected.

LAS VEGAS, NV -- You can't run a business if you don't pay your people. Everything from customer service to sanitation falls apart. And that's exactly what's happening at the Artisan Hotel. Contact 13 Chief Investigator Darcy Spears first exposed deteriorating conditions with the property and its people last week.

TOKYO -- Health ministers from Japan, China and South Korea agreed on Monday to step up efforts to ensure food safety following concerns over pesticide-tainted Chinese-made dumplings.

Not keeping food hot or cold enough is the No. 1 critical violation Washtenaw County restaurants are cited for, according to Kristen Schweighoefer of the Washtenaw County Environmental Health Division. The county inspects restaurants every six months make sure they're serving food safely and are following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Food Code.

Gary Taylor, with the Environmental Defence Society www.eds.org.nz, writes in this op-ed we're likely to see a lot more marine farms in the Hauraki Gulf, Kaipara Harbour and around the rest of New Zealand's coast. Or at least that's what the Government thinks.