Coming Soon to a Store Near You
WASHINGTON, DC-Excel Corp., the second largest beef processor in the US, plans to ship irradiated beef to its food service customers in March. Treated beef will require labels with the international symbol of irradiation, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says the meat is not radioactive. The irradiation process uses gamma rays, X-rays, or electron beams to eliminate E. coli and reduce the possibility of listeria, salmonella, and campylobacter in meat. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), E. coli O157 infects over 73,000 people a year and causes about 600 deaths.
The FDA has previously allowed irradiation in poulty, fruits, vegetables, and spices. The new approval applies not only to beef but also to pork and lamb. The FDA is currently reviewing the use of irradiation in ready-to-eat meats, such as hot dogs and luncheon meats.
I Was There: An Infection Preventionist on the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 30th 2025Deep feelings run strong about the COVID-19 pandemic, and some beautiful art has come out of those emotions. Infection Control Today is proud to share this poem by Carmen Duke, MPH, CIC, in response to a recent article by Heather Stoltzfus, MPH, RN, CIC.
From the Derby to the Decontam Room: Leadership Lessons for Sterile Processing
April 27th 2025Elizabeth (Betty) Casey, MSN, RN, CNOR, CRCST, CHL, is the SVP of Operations and Chief Nursing Officer at Surgical Solutions in Overland, Kansas. This SPD leader reframes preparation, unpredictability, and teamwork by comparing surgical services to the Kentucky Derby to reenergize sterile processing professionals and inspire systemic change.
Show, Tell, Teach: Elevating EVS Training Through Cognitive Science and Performance Coaching
April 25th 2025Training EVS workers for hygiene excellence demands more than manuals—it requires active engagement, motor skills coaching, and teach-back techniques to reduce HAIs and improve patient outcomes.
The Rise of Disposable Products in Health Care Cleaning and Linens
April 25th 2025Health care-associated infections are driving a shift toward disposable microfiber cloths, mop pads, and curtains—offering infection prevention, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in one-time-use solutions.