Food safety refers to the practices and measures taken to ensure that food is safe for consumption. It encompasses a variety of guidelines and regulations aimed at preventing foodborne illnesses caused by contaminants such as bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemical substances. Food safety involves the proper handling, preparation, and storage of food to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure that food remains safe throughout the supply chain—from farm to table. Key concepts within food safety include hygiene, proper cooking temperatures, cross-contamination prevention, and accurate labeling of food products. Regulatory bodies often establish standards and conduct inspections to enforce food safety laws and protect public health.
A woman in her 50s was hospitalized for severe food poisoning linked to *Clostridium botulinum*, marking the first known case in Niigata City since 1982. Her symptoms were triggered by…